NEW DELHI — The Union government on Monday introduced the ‘VB G Ram Ji’ Bill in the Lok Sabha, triggering strong protests from Opposition parties both inside and outside Parliament. The Bill, which is being projected as a replacement for the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) launched during the UPA regime, led to repeated disruptions in the House.
As soon as the Bill was tabled, Opposition MPs raised slogans, accusing the government of attempting to dismantle one of the country’s most significant social welfare programmes that guarantees employment to rural households. Several members trooped into the Well of the House, forcing the Speaker to intervene and briefly adjourn proceedings.
Opposition Alleges Assault on Welfare Architecture
The Congress and other Opposition parties alleged that the proposed legislation would weaken employment guarantees for the rural poor and undermine the social security framework built over the last two decades. Congress leaders described the move as “anti-poor” and claimed it was aimed at replacing a rights-based welfare programme with a discretionary scheme.
Senior Congress leaders said MGNREGA has been a lifeline for millions of rural families, particularly during economic slowdowns, natural disasters, and the COVID-19 pandemic. They accused the government of pushing through major policy changes without adequate consultation or debate.
Protests Outside Parliament, Nationwide Call
Protests spilled over outside Parliament as well, with Opposition MPs staging demonstrations on the Parliament complex, holding placards and raising slogans against the Bill.
Escalating its resistance, the Congress party announced a call for nationwide protests on Tuesday, urging party units, trade unions, and civil society organisations to mobilise against the proposed legislation. The party said demonstrations would be held at district and state headquarters across the country.
“The government is dismantling a historic employment guarantee law that empowered rural India,” a Congress spokesperson said, adding that the party would “fight the Bill both inside Parliament and on the streets.”
Government Defends Bill
Government sources, however, defended the introduction of the VB G Ram Ji Bill, stating that it aims to restructure rural employment schemes and improve efficiency, transparency, and outcomes. They dismissed Opposition allegations as politically motivated and said the Bill would be discussed in detail during the legislative process.
Uncertain Legislative Path Ahead
With Opposition parties united in their opposition and the Congress intensifying pressure through mass protests, the Bill is expected to face stormy debates in both Houses of Parliament in the coming days.
