Congress vows agitation against MGNREGA overhaul
Hyderabad: Telangana Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy on Thursday accused the Government of India led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi of dismantling the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). He also announced plans for a nationwide agitation to oppose the proposed changes.
While addressing a TPCC working committee meeting at Gandhi Bhavan, Reddy criticised the Centre’s proposal to replace the existing law. According to him, the move weakens rural employment security and strips workers of hard-earned rights.
Moreover, Reddy described MGNREGA as a landmark reform that reshaped rural India. He said the Act provided assured employment and dignity to millions. He also credited Sonia Gandhi for steering the legislation and safeguarding rural livelihoods.
Congress alleges attack on MGNREGA legacy
Meanwhile, Reddy alleged that the BJP targeted MGNREGA because of its association with the Gandhi name and the Congress party. He claimed the government diluted key guarantees, including the right to work, minimum wages, and 100 days of employment.
In addition, he highlighted major structural changes. He said the Centre removed administrative powers from Gram Panchayats. He also alleged that the Union government cut its funding share by 40 percent, shifting the burden to states.
Therefore, Reddy urged Congress workers to step up resistance. He called for resolutions opposing the changes in all 12,000 Gram Panchayats across Telangana. He said party workers would submit these resolutions collectively to the President of India.
Finally, Congress leaders in Telangana echoed his stand. They indicated that the party may intensify protests against the Centre’s policies in the coming days.
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