Empowering Change: Congress Working Committee Charts Bold Future for VB-G RAM G, Says Kannan Gopinathan
Kannan Gopinathan, an AICC spokesperson, announced on December 22 in Puducherry that the Congress Working Committee (CWC) will convene on December 27 to discuss the party’s response to the Union government’s recent decision to replace the two-decade-old Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) with the newly proposed Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM G). Gopinathan described the government’s move as a direct attack on this critical legislation, which was established by the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government.
During a press conference held at the Puducherry Pradesh Congress Committee office, Gopinathan emphasized that the BJP’s action constitutes an affront to the ideals championed by Mahatma Gandhi and undermines the principles of federalism. “Our rural job scheme has earned international recognition for its positive impact on impoverished communities. MGNREGA represented a shift in treating citizens as active participants in the economy, rather than mere subjects. By replacing it, the Centre has effectively demolished a pro-poor initiative,” he stated.
Highlighting the implications of this legislative shift, Gopinathan noted that the CWC will deliberate on potential legal measures to contest the decision, given that the new legislation is expected to significantly increase the financial burden on state governments. The responsibility for a substantial portion of the expenses-40%—will fall on states, while the central government retains control over the rules and implementation.
When questioned about the government’s claims of corruption surrounding MGNREGA’s execution, Gopinathan dismissed these assertions. “The Central government seems to hold a belief that corruption is endemic everywhere except within its own ranks, which is simply not accurate. MGNREGA underwent extensive scrutiny and debate within the Standing Committee and has been universally acknowledged for its role in providing economic security to the underprivileged.”
Gopinathan’s remarks were backed by prominent party figures, including former Chief Minister V. Narayanasamy, PCC chief V. Vaithilingam, former Minister M. Kandasamy, and senior vice-president of PCC P.K. Devadoss, who were present at the press conference to lend their support.
The replacement of MGNREGA with VB-G RAM G raises significant concerns about governance, transparency, and the welfare of rural populations that depend heavily on employment guarantee schemes. As the CWC prepares to explore options to contest this policy shift, the political discourse surrounding rural employment, accountability, and the role of the government in providing economic safety is set to intensify.
As developments unfold, the Congress party’s strategy, including possible legal actions and mobilization within states, will be closely watched by both supporters and critics. With the welfare of millions hanging in the balance, the urgency for clear, pragmatic solutions to rural employment challenges has never been greater.
This evolving situation will continue to resonate within the political landscape of India, particularly in the context of federal-state relations and the principles that underpin democratic governance.
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/puducherry/congress-working-committee-to-decide-future-course-of-action-on-vb-g-ram-g-kannan-gopinathan/article70425306.ece
Category : Puducherry
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Publish Date: 2025-12-22 15:30:00
