Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: The Congress organised a National MNREGA Workers Convention at Jawahar Bhawan, where senior leaders Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge accused the Narendra Modi-led government of undermining the Constitution, democracy, and workers’ rights.
Kharge Warns of Prolonged Struggle Over MNREGA
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge said the party’s agitation would continue until the government withdraws the new law and fully restores MNREGA. He alleged that the country is effectively being run by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, accusing them of focusing on election campaigns rather than governance. Kharge criticised the government’s development claims, stating that while grand promises like bullet trains are made, even basic infrastructure expansion has stalled. He further accused the Prime Minister of using symbolic narratives for votes while remaining disconnected from the realities of labourers and the poor.
Rahul Gandhi Alleges Threat to Constitution and Democracy
Addressing the gathering, Rahul Gandhi said the current government wants to dismantle constitutional values and democracy, comparing its approach to pre-independence rule where decisions were taken by a single authority. He asserted that the BJP seeks to recreate such a system and called unity the only way to counter it. Describing the BJP as fearful, Rahul Gandhi said a united opposition would force the Prime Minister to retreat and revive MNREGA. He also termed the proposed VB Jiramji Bill a slogan rather than a genuine reform and called it an attack on the rights of the poor, urging workers to unite against it.
Symbolic Protest Highlights Workers’ Issues
In a symbolic gesture, Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge wore traditional gamchas, carried spades on their shoulders, and planted saplings using soil brought by workers from across the country. The act underscored the Congress’s attempt to project solidarity with labourers and highlight concerns around employment and social justice.
