Congress Criticizes Modi Government's Move to Replace MGNREGA

Congress Leader's Strong Opposition to New Employment Law

On Saturday, Congress leader Randeep Singh Surjewala criticized the Narendra Modi administration for its proposal to replace the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) with the 'Developed India-Employment and Livelihood Guarantee Mission (Rural) Act'. He accused the BJP of showing disrespect towards both Mahatma Gandhi and Lord Ram, claiming that the party merely exploits their names for propaganda.

Speaking at a press conference in Bhubaneswar, Surjewala asserted that the introduction of the new law would adversely affect the livelihoods of nearly 500 million impoverished individuals, who benefited from MGNREGA during the tenure of the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government.

He stated, 'For the past eleven years, the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi have been used for promotion, yet they have been disregarded. Similarly, the BJP has seized power in the name of Lord Ram while ignoring his principles. This is how the BJP governs.'

Surjewala further claimed that the proposed legislation would directly impact around 125 million poor, tribal, Dalit, and backward class individuals. Ajay Kumar Lallu, in charge of Odisha affairs for Congress, announced that the party would launch a 'Save MGNREGA Struggle' campaign in Odisha starting January 10, which will continue until February 25. He added, 'Public meetings will be organized at both district and state levels to protest against this new law that affects the poorest.'