Opposition Attacks Centre Over Rural Jobs Law Change
Opposition parties on Monday strongly criticised the Union government over its move to introduce a new rural employment law to replace the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). The proposal was raised in Parliament during the ongoing session, triggering sharp political reactions over both policy changes and the removal of Mahatma Gandhi’s name from the flagship scheme.
Leaders from the Congress, Trinamool Congress and other opposition parties termed the move an “insult” to Mahatma Gandhi, arguing that the scheme was not just a welfare programme but also a tribute to the values associated with him. They accused the Centre of attempting to erase historical and ideological symbols linked to social justice and rural welfare.
Concerns Over Dilution of Legal Guarantee
Opposition members also raised concerns that the proposed law could weaken the legal right to employment guaranteed under MGNREGA. The existing law provides rural households with a statutory guarantee of up to 100 days of unskilled work each year. Critics warned that structural changes proposed under the new framework could dilute this entitlement and alter the Centre–state funding balance, placing additional financial pressure on states.
Some leaders questioned whether the revised law would retain the same level of accountability and worker protections that currently exist under MGNREGA, including timely wage payments and grievance redressal mechanisms.
Government Defends Proposed Changes
The government, however, defended the proposal, stating that the new rural employment framework aims to modernise the scheme, expand livelihood opportunities, and better align it with development goals. Ministers said the intent was to improve efficiency and outcomes, not to undermine rural workers.
Debate Expected to Continue
Opposition parties have demanded that the government withdraw the proposal or, at the very least, retain Mahatma Gandhi’s name and preserve the legal guarantees under the existing law. The issue is expected to see further debate and protests as parliamentary discussions continue.
