Congress Criticizes BJP Government for Removing Mahatma Gandhi’s Name from Rural Employment Act

Opposition Congress in Manipur criticized the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government for removing Mahatma Gandhi’s name from the rural employment act. The Parliament approved the Viksit Bharat — Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM G) Bill, 2025, and President Droupadi Murmu gave her assent to the legislation. Former Manipur Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh strongly condemned the government for dropping Mahatma Gandhi’s name from the amended Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), 2005. Singh expressed that removing Mahatma Gandhi’s name from the welfare scheme associated with his ideals is an insult to the Father of the Nation. He criticized the move, questioning the reasoning behind the name change. The Congress party condemned the decision, highlighting unclear aspects of the new legislation. State Congress President Keisham Meghachandra Singh pointed out the lack of clarity in crucial provisions of the amended Act. By passing the VB-G RAM G Bill, 2025, the government is seen as undermining MGNREGA, a crucial lifeline for rural India. The Congress strongly opposed the move, emphasizing the importance of the landmark legislation that guarantees employment and livelihood security to rural households. The new Act weakens the demand-driven guarantee of employment, shifting financial burdens onto states and threatening rural livelihood security. The Congress party pledged to support rural workers, farmers, and the poor against any attempts to dilute their rights. The press conference on this matter was attended by Congress Working Committee member Gaikhangam Gangmei and other party leaders.