Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has launched a sharp attack on the BJP government over the newly introduced G RAM G Bill, accusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi of undermining Mahatma Gandhi’s ideals and threatening the livelihood security of rural India.
Gandhi Slams G RAM G Bill as Anti-Poor
Speaking out against the Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Bill, 2025, Rahul Gandhi termed the move an insult to Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy. He alleged that the government is attempting to dismantle MGNREGA, which he described as a lifeline for millions of rural households and a critical economic shield during the Covid-19 crisis.
‘Modiji Has Hatred for Gandhi’s Ideas and Poor’s Rights’
In a post on X, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha claimed that Prime Minister Modi has consistently opposed Gandhian principles and has been trying to weaken MGNREGA since 2014. He said the scheme represents Gandhi’s vision of village self-rule and the right to employment, adding that the Congress would strongly oppose any attempt to erase it.
Concerns Over Centralisation and Funding Changes
Rahul Gandhi argued that the new bill shifts power away from villages and states, concentrating decision-making with the Centre. Under the proposed framework, states would be required to bear 40 percent of the scheme’s cost, while work availability could be suspended once budgets are exhausted or during harvest seasons, which he warned would severely impact rural workers.
Opposition Unites Against Bill in Parliament
The bill’s introduction in the Lok Sabha sparked protests from several opposition MPs, including Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Shashi Tharoor, who objected to removing Mahatma Gandhi’s name and altering the core structure of the employment guarantee programme. Even leaders from BJP allies have expressed concerns over the increased financial burden on states.
Government Defends Move as Part of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ Vision
Government sources, however, maintain that the G RAM G Bill aligns with the broader ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ vision and introduces a normative funding model similar to other central schemes. Under the proposal, of the estimated annual expenditure of ₹1.51 lakh crore, the Centre would contribute about ₹95,692 crore, with special funding ratios for northeastern, Himalayan states, and union territories.
