New Delhi, 27 December (H.S.): Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, expressed strong reservations on Saturday about the newly enacted Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act, 2025—known as the VB-G RAM G Act—which replaces the longstanding Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA).

Addressing a press conference, Gandhi argued that the Prime Minister took the decision unilaterally without Cabinet consultation or detailed study, drawing parallels to the 2016 demonetisation initiative.Gandhi highlighted MGNREGA's role as a demand-driven scheme guaranteeing 100 days of work annually to rural households, which he said empowered workers, curbed migration, and supported infrastructure development, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

He contended that the VB-G RAM G Act introduces a shift to 125 workdays under central oversight, with states bearing 40% of costs, potentially affecting federal autonomy and rural employment access for marginalized communities.

The Congress leader announced the launch of a nationwide 'MGNREGA Bachao Abhiyan' campaign starting January 5, urging opposition unity to protect the scheme's original framework. He noted the Act's swift passage through Parliament on December 16, with presidential assent on December 21, amid debates over its alignment with Mahatma Gandhi's vision of Gram Swaraj. Gandhi emphasized the need for broader consultation to safeguard rural livelihoods.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar