Lok Sabha Passes VB-GRAM G Bill Amidst Opposition Protests
In a heated session, the Lok Sabha passed the VB-GRAM G Bill, 2025, despite strong opposition protests. Critics accused the government of undermining Mahatma Gandhi's legacy and the MGNREGA provisions. Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan defended the bill, asserting that it aims to ensure proper use of funds and promote transparency. He emphasized the importance of developed villages for a developed India, while also addressing accusations from opposition leaders. This article delves into the details of the bill's passage and the surrounding controversy.
| Dec 18, 2025, 14:38 IST
Parliament's Turbulent Session
During a tumultuous session in Parliament, the Lok Sabha approved the Developed India Guarantee Employment and Livelihood Mission (Rural) (VB-GRAM G) Bill, 2025, on Thursday. Opposition members staged fierce protests, accusing the government of disrespecting Mahatma Gandhi and undermining the provisions of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA).
Read More: Shivraj Singh Chouhan on G Ram G Bill: The Bill Will Fulfill Gandhi's Dream, Guaranteeing 125 Days of Employment
Defending the bill, Union Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan stated that Mahatma Gandhi's name was added to MGNREGA in light of the 2009 elections. He criticized the opposition's uproar in the Lok Sabha, claiming that ignoring responses after making a statement is a form of 'violence' and that the opposition is acting against Bapu's ideals. Chouhan accused Congress members of using MGNREGA for political theatrics while asserting that the Modi government is focused on delivering results.
Responding to Priyanka Gandhi's remarks, Chouhan remarked that the obsession with naming schemes is a Congress trait, with many initiatives named to glorify the Nehru family. He emphasized the need for proper utilization of MGNREGA funds, advocating for transparency and an end to corruption, which led to the decision to introduce a new scheme. He reiterated that developed villages are essential for a developed India, which is the core aim of this initiative. Chouhan noted that initially, the act did not include Mahatma Gandhi's name, which was later added by Congress for electoral gain in 2009. He asserted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has effectively and robustly implemented MGNREGA.
Read More: Parliament Diary: G Ram G Bill Introduced in Lok Sabha, Opposition Protests Removal of Gandhi's Name
Chouhan reacted to the eight-hour discussion on the GRAAM G Bill, asserting that the Modi government is committed to upholding Mahatma Gandhi's principles through various initiatives. He stated, “Congress has destroyed Bapu's ideals, while the NDA has preserved his legacy through schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, Ujjwala Yojana, Swachh Bharat Mission, and Ayushman Bharat.” The senior BJP leader also refuted Priyanka Gandhi's criticism that the Modi government arbitrarily changes the names of schemes, citing several welfare programs named after Jawaharlal Nehru and Mahatma Gandhi.