Scrap VB-G RAM G Act, bring back MGNREGA for rural job rights: Siddaramaiah to Centre

Overview Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stated on Saturday, January 3, 2025 , that his government is demanding the Centre to scrap the new VB-G RAM G Act and reinstate the UPA-era MGNREGA . The Chief Minister argues that MGNREGA provided the "right to a job to poor, vulnerable, women and small farmers". Key Developments Demand for Repeal: The Karnataka government is formally requesting the central government to repeal the Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM G) Act . Reinstatement of MGNREGA: The state government is urging the Centre to bring back the UPA-era MGNREGA , emphasizing its role in providing employment to vulnerable sections. Allegations Against New Legislation: The Chief Minister alleges that the new legislation takes away the right to livelihood, the powers of panchayats, and adds a financial burden on States. Congress Party Involvement: Both the Congress party and the State Government will address the issue simultaneously, with an immediate action plan. Public Protest: The Congress, along with the public, labourers, and like-minded individuals, will protest until the VB-G RAM G Act is withdrawn. Arguments Against the VB-G RAM G Act Impact on Livelihood The Chief Minister argues that the VB-G RAM G Act takes away the right to livelihood of vulnerable sections of society, particularly women, the poor, and small farmers. Impact on Panchayats The Chief Minister claims that the new act takes away the powers of the Panchayat, impacting local self-governance. Financial Burden on States The Chief Minister alleges that the VB-G RAM G Act adds a financial burden to the States without any consultation with the states or the people. Call to Action The State Government urges the Centre to scrap the Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM G) Act and restore people’s right to work, and restore the rights of panchayats to self-govern. UPSC Relevance This news is relevant to GS2: Government Policies and Interventions , GS2: Issues Relating to Poverty and Hunger , and GS3: Inclusive Growth . It highlights the ongoing debate about social welfare schemes and the roles of central and state governments in their implementation. Important Facts MGNREGA: The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act is a significant social welfare scheme aimed at providing employment to rural households. Panchayats: Local self-government institutions at the village level, empowered by the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act. Centre-State Relations: The issue highlights the dynamics of Centre-State relations in policy implementation and financial responsibilities.