Opposition Criticizes New Employment Bill as Threat to Rural Jobs
Opposition's Strong Reactions to the New Bill
Following the passage of the 'Developed India-Gi Ram Ji Bill' in the Lok Sabha, Congress and several other opposition parties have labeled it as a legislation that threatens rural employment. They accused the government of harboring animosity towards Mahatma Gandhi.
In contrast, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) praised the bill, asserting that it would enhance public welfare and strengthen rural infrastructure. The Lok Sabha approved the 'Developed India-Gi Ram Ji Bill, 2025' on Thursday amidst opposition protests.
Concerns Raised by Congress Leaders
Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra expressed her concerns to reporters in the Parliament complex, stating, "This bill is set to dismantle the MGNREGA program. We will vehemently oppose this legislation, and all opposition parties are in agreement."
She argued that the promise of 100 to 125 days of work is merely a 'ploy,' as a closer examination of the bill reveals its intent to abolish MGNREGA. Priyanka Gandhi further noted, "As the financial burden shifts to state governments, MGNREGA will gradually cease to exist due to lack of funds."
Impact on Rural Employment
She emphasized that the MGNREGA scheme has been a crucial source of employment for the poorest citizens, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic. "This bill is against the poor and laborers, and we will oppose it strongly," she asserted.
Criticism from Other Opposition Members
Samajwadi Party MP Dharmendra Yadav criticized the bill's passage without consensus, stating, "The removal of Mahatma Gandhi's name clearly indicates that BJP members and this government harbor hatred towards Bapu." He claimed that this legislation would render the National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme ineffective in the coming years.
DMK's Stance on the Bill
DMK MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi condemned the bill as entirely against rural India, asserting that the central government would decide who gets employment and in which regions. She described the removal of Mahatma Gandhi's name from the scheme as disgraceful.
BJP Defends the Legislation
On the other hand, senior BJP leader Ravi Shankar Prasad stated, "There was nearly 10 hours of discussion in the Lok Sabha, and the opposition was given ample opportunity to speak. However, when Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan stood to respond, the Congress party resorted to tearing papers and creating a ruckus. They were unwilling to listen."
He questioned, "Has the Congress party become anarchic? Is this the future of the Congress under Rahul Gandhi's leadership?"
BJP's Vision for the Future
BJP leader Sambit Patra remarked, "Today marks a historic and significant day. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, welfare schemes have been advanced. This bill will work for the benefit of the poor. We have all witnessed the proceedings in the house. Over ₹1.51 lakh crore will be spent under this bill, guaranteeing 125 days of work instead of 100, and strengthening rural infrastructure."
He lamented the behavior of the Congress party and some of its MPs in the house, stating it would be remembered as a 'dark chapter' in India's parliamentary history.