Overview On December 20, 2025 , Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson Sonia Gandhi accused the Modi Government of undermining the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) . She asserted that the proposed changes, which she termed a "black law," would be resisted by party workers. The statement underscores the ongoing political debate surrounding the effectiveness and future of MGNREGA, a key social welfare program. Key Developments Allegations Against the Government Weakening MGNREGA: Sonia Gandhi alleges that the Modi Government has weakened MGNREGA, impacting millions of farmers, laborers, and landless people. Ignoring Rural Poor: She claims the Centre has disregarded the interests of the rural poor over the past 11 years . Arbitrary Changes: The Congress leader alleges that the government removed Mahatma Gandhi's name and altered MGNREGA's structure without proper consultation. Historical Context MGNREGA Act: Passed during Manmohan Singh's tenure as Prime Minister with parliamentary consensus. Revolutionary Step: Described as a revolutionary step providing livelihood for the deprived and exploited. Impact: Reduced migration, provided legal right to employment, and empowered gram panchayats. Gram Swaraj: Aligned with Mahatma Gandhi's vision of Gram Swaraj . UPSC Relevance GS2: Government Policies and Social Justice This news is relevant to GS2 , specifically concerning government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. MGNREGA is a significant social welfare program, and its potential weakening or alteration is a critical issue for UPSC aspirants to understand. GS3: Economy The topic also touches upon GS3 , particularly issues related to economic development and employment. MGNREGA's role in providing rural employment and its impact on the rural economy are important aspects to consider. Exam Perspective Prelims Year of MGNREGA enactment. Number of guaranteed employment days. Objectives of MGNREGA. Role of Gram Panchayats in MGNREGA. Mains Evaluate the effectiveness of MGNREGA in poverty alleviation. Analyze the challenges in MGNREGA implementation. Discuss the impact of alleged changes to MGNREGA on rural livelihoods. Essay Role of social welfare schemes in inclusive growth. Relevance of Gandhian principles in contemporary rural development.