Congress President Criticizes Government's Performance Ahead of New Year
Congress Leader's New Year Wishes and Critique
On Wednesday, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge targeted the central government, accusing the BJP of failing on multiple fronts by 2025 and labeling their governance as 'misrule.' Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru, he expressed hopes for good governance in the upcoming year, stating, 'I pray that this year brings happiness to everyone. I hope the new year brings prosperity and good health for all, and that governments provide effective governance next year.'
Opposition's Concerns Over Key Issues
Earlier in the day, the opposition in the Rajya Sabha criticized the BJP, highlighting 14 contentious issues, including the replacement of MGNREGA, the depreciating rupee, and rising inflation. They pointed out that the Congress had shown unity on these matters, particularly regarding MGNREGA and the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls, accusing the central government of infringing on citizens' rights to work and vote.
Kharge's Reflections on BJP Governance
In a post on X, Kharge emphasized the need to reflect on the BJP's governance as the year ends, stating that during the 11th year of BJP rule, millions of poor people lost their 'right to work' due to the termination of MGNREGA. He criticized the lack of preparation and training for the SIR, which he claimed stripped millions of their 'right to vote,' while also accusing the BJP of vote theft. This criticism came as Parliament passed the Developed India Employment and Livelihood Mission (Rural) Act, 2025, replacing MGNREGA introduced by the UPA government.
Criticism of New Employment Law
Although the new law extends the employment guarantee from 100 to 125 days compared to MGNREGA, the opposition has criticized it for removing Mahatma Gandhi's name and for the 60:40 funding ratio between the center and states. On the economic front, Kharge highlighted the falling rupee, noting that the Indian currency has reached a record low against the US dollar, hitting the 91 mark.