What’s Next for Congress? Mallikarjun Kharge Calls for Action Against MGNREGA Cuts

Congress President Urges Party Members to Mobilize

New Delhi: On Saturday, Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge engaged party members in discussions about a potential protest against the proposed discontinuation of the MGNREGA scheme. He emphasized the need for early preparations for the upcoming Assembly elections in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Bengal, and other states scheduled for April-May 2026.

During a meeting of the Congress Working Committee (CWC) at the AICC headquarters in Indira Bhawan, Kharge advocated for a nationwide initiative dubbed the 'MGNREGA Action Plan' to counter the government's decision to end the rural employment program.

"This decision must be opposed vigorously across the nation. Back in January 2015, when the Modi administration modified the land acquisition law to favor corporate interests, Congress members took to the streets, compelling the government to backtrack," he stated.

Kharge also raised concerns regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, reiterating accusations of collusion between the BJP and the Election Commission.

"Rahulji has repeatedly provided evidence of 'vote theft' to the public. The collaboration between the BJP and the ECI is evident. We must ensure that our voters' names remain on the electoral rolls," he added.

The CWC meeting saw participation from key figures including Rahul Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi, and other senior leaders.

Kharge urged party workers and Booth Level Agents to conduct door-to-door outreach to prepare voter lists for the 2027 elections.

He criticized the government for allegedly misusing investigative agencies to target opposition figures.

"For over a decade, we have witnessed the misuse of institutions like the ED, IT, and CBI. The BJP and the Sangh Parivar are attempting to tarnish our leaders' reputations over the National Herald case. We are engaged in a legal battle. As Rahulji often says, 'Satyameva Jayate', and we will prevail," he conveyed via a message on X.

Kharge condemned the violence against Hindus and minorities in Bangladesh and highlighted the alleged efforts by BJP and RSS affiliates to disrupt communal harmony during Christmas, which has negatively impacted the country's global image.

Prominent attendees at the CWC meeting included Congress General Secretary K.C. Venugopal, Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, senior leader Harish Rawat, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, former MP Salman Khurshid, and MPs Abhishek Manu Singhvi and Rajeev Shukla.

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor was also present, despite his recent comments that reportedly conflicted with the party's official position.