Karnataka to Hold Special Assembly Session on MGNREGA Issues

Karnataka's Special Assembly Session Announcement

On Friday, Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar announced that a two-day special assembly session will be convened to address concerns related to the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). This decision comes in light of worries regarding the impact on rural workers following the central government's plan to replace the MGNREGA scheme with the new VB Gramji Act.

Discussion on MGNREGA and VB Gramji Act

While speaking to reporters, Shivakumar emphasized the importance of this special session, stating, "We have decided to hold a two-day session to discuss MGNREGA issues in detail." He also challenged the BJP to clarify their agenda and engage in a public discussion about it. Furthermore, he invited Union Minister Prahlad Joshi to debate the differences between MGNREGA and the new VB Gramji Bill.

Call for Public Awareness and Debate

Shivakumar urged that a date should be set for this debate, suggesting that awareness among the public is crucial. He proposed inviting leaders from the opposition and the central government to participate in a televised discussion. He also mentioned that if there were allegations of corruption amounting to ₹11 lakh crore during the UPA government, the CBI should investigate these claims.

VB Gramji Bill and Employment Opportunities

In December 2025, during the winter session of Parliament, the Developed India-Employment and Livelihood Mission (Rural) Bill, 2025, also known as the VB Gramji Bill, was passed. The government has proposed an allocation of ₹1,51,282 crore for this initiative, aimed at creating job opportunities and fostering comprehensive development in rural areas.