BJP Defends Name Change of MGNREGA Amid Criticism from Rahul Gandhi

BJP spokesperson C.R. Keshavan has come forward to defend the renaming of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), while simultaneously criticizing Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for being at odds with Gandhi's principles. Keshavan argues that the new legislation will empower the underprivileged and align with Gandhi's vision of village self-governance. He also highlights the transformative aspects of the bill, which aims to increase guaranteed workdays and provide unemployment benefits. The discussion raises questions about the Congress party's historical claims and their relevance in today's political landscape.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 17, 2025, 17:06 IST

BJP's Stance on MGNREGA Name Change

The national spokesperson for the BJP, C.R. Keshavan, defended the decision to rename the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) on Wednesday. He criticized Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, asserting that both he and his party are contrary to the ideals and principles of Mahatma Gandhi. Keshavan emphasized that this legislation aims to empower the poor and marginalized, aligning with Gandhi's vision of village self-governance.

Criticism of Rahul Gandhi

In a conversation with a news agency, Keshavan stated that Rahul Gandhi and the Congress party stand in stark contrast to the principles of Mahatma Gandhi. He noted that Gandhi envisioned a Ram Rajya, while Congress leaders hesitate to even mention Lord Ram. Keshavan pointed out that the Congress party had previously filed an affidavit in the Supreme Court claiming there is no historical evidence for Lord Ram's existence. He questioned the authority of Rahul Gandhi and Congress to speak about Mahatma Gandhi, suggesting that the public can clearly see through their 'pretense' and 'hypocrisy.' He further mentioned that the revised law would significantly benefit workers.

Transformative Nature of the New Legislation

Keshavan described the new bill as transformative, increasing the number of guaranteed workdays and providing unemployment benefits, symbolizing true cooperative federalism. He expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for this commendable initiative, which embodies Mahatma Gandhi's vision of village self-governance. Additionally, Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan introduced the Developed India - Employment and Livelihood Mission (Rural) Bill, 2025, also known as the VB-G Ram-Gi Bill, in the Lok Sabha, aimed at replacing the two-decade-old MGNREGA.