New Delhi: Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has condemned the central government for its handling of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), labeling the current state of the scheme as a “living monument” of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “betrayal” of rural India. His remarks coincided with the anniversary of MGNREGA’s enactment, a landmark initiative introduced by the Congress-led UPA government in 2005 to secure the ‘Right to Work’ for millions in rural India.

Kharge, in his post on the social media platform ‘X’, underscored the historical significance of MGNREGA as a crucial social safety net designed to provide employment opportunities to rural communities. He recalled how the scheme was envisioned as a lifeline for the poorest sections of society, ensuring that they had access to employment and a means to sustain themselves. However, he expressed grave concerns about the current state of MGNREGA, which he believes has deteriorated significantly under the current administration.

Kharge pointed out that, despite the ongoing relevance of MGNREGA, with 13.3 crore active workers still relying on it, the scheme has been undermined by the government’s neglect. He highlighted issues such as low wages, a drastic reduction in the number of workdays available, and the widespread deletion of job cards, which have left many rural workers without the employment opportunities they desperately need.

The Congress president’s criticism reflects a broader dissatisfaction within the party regarding the central government’s approach to MGNREGA. The scheme, once a cornerstone of India’s efforts to alleviate rural poverty, is now seen as being at risk due to what Kharge describes as deliberate mismanagement. His comments serve as a call to action, urging the government to restore MGNREGA to its original purpose and ensure that it continues to serve as a vital support system for rural communities across India.