Congress Criticizes New Rural Employment Law Implementation
Congress MP Critiques Rural Development Ministry
On Monday, Congress MP Jairam Ramesh expressed strong criticism towards the Ministry of Rural Development regarding the implementation of the VB-G RAM G Act, set to take effect on July 1. He labeled it as "another sluggish and sensational move" and claimed that operational details of the scheme are still unavailable. This new legislation is intended to replace the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) of 2005, introducing an enhanced framework that guarantees 125 days of wage employment in rural areas. Speaking to reporters, AICC General Secretary in charge of communications, Ramesh, launched a fierce attack on the central government, alleging that the new act undermines the rights of rural workers.
Concerns Over Lack of Transparency
Ramesh pointed out that the VB-G RAM G scheme announced by the Rural Development Ministry does not add any new information to what was already known. He criticized it as yet another lazy attempt by a government skilled at grabbing headlines. Aside from a promise to release information soon, no further details have been provided. If this replacement for MGNREGA is to be implemented by July 1, 2026, all operational details should have been made available by now. Following the Prime Minister's appeal to 'save fuel,' the government assured that there is no shortage of petrol or diesel. The Congress leader emphasized that meaningful consultations with state governments should occur before the scheme is implemented, insisting that discussions should not merely be a formality.
Doubts About the New Scheme
He asserted that there should be no doubt regarding the VB-G RAM G scheme, which guarantees excessive centralization and weakens the bargaining power of rural workers. The constitutional rights of rural Indian families to work and earn wages are being eroded. The Employment and Livelihood Mission (Rural) Act 2025 was passed during the winter session of Parliament, changing the employment guarantee from 100 days to 125 days. However, the opposition has criticized this bill, arguing that it removes Mahatma Gandhi's name and alters the funding ratio between the center and states from 60:40.