Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has strongly criticized the Karnataka government, stating that Governor Thaawar Chand Gehlot was justified in refusing to read the address prepared by the state administration during a recent joint legislative session. Chouhan, who was in Bengaluru to brief BJP legislators on countering the Congress narrative regarding the G-RAM-G Act, asserted that the address was filled with "lies" and "falsehoods" that undermined democratic principles.
Democratic Decorum Destroyed
Chouhan emphasized that the events during the joint session had "destroyed democratic decorum" and called for strict action against those responsible for the disruption. He pointed out that the address contained such blatant inaccuracies that it could not even be presented, specifically highlighting claims about the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) as untrue.
Congress: A Machine of Lies
In a sharp rebuke, Chouhan described the Congress party as "a machine of lies — a shop of illusion — and has now become a market of rumour." He condemned the conduct of Congress legislators following the governor's brief address and walkout, stating that their actions had "lowered the dignity of the House" and warranted disciplinary measures against those who attempted to obstruct the governor.
Defending G-RAM-G Act Reforms
Chouhan laid out the BJP's defence of the changes to the rural employment framework under the G-RAM-G Act, countering the Congress government's allegations by citing alleged irregularities in MGNREGA implementation in Karnataka. He presented media reports detailing instances from Yadgir where, he claimed, men disguised as women fraudulently claimed MGNREGA wages.
Irregularities and Lack of Action
The minister cited irregularities amounting to Rs 1.3 lakh crore under MGNREGA in the state, alleging that no action had been taken despite 3,551 complaints. He referenced a 2025 survey of five gram panchayats in Kalaburagi that reportedly uncovered several fake works, underscoring systemic issues in the program's administration.
Addressing Employment Concerns
To alleviate concerns over employment, Chouhan announced that an unemployment allowance would be provided to individuals who seek work but do not secure employment under the G-RAM-G framework. He highlighted the use of the Gati Shakti digital platform to track projects and prevent misappropriation or duplication of works through technology-based monitoring, aiming to enhance transparency and efficiency.
Bengal Gram Procurement Approved
In a significant development, Chouhan confirmed that the Centre has granted approval for Karnataka's request to procure Bengal gram (channa). He revealed that 1.1 lakh tonnes of Bengal gram, valued at Rs 595.4 crore, will be procured, providing a boost to the state's agricultural sector and addressing local needs.
Chouhan's statements in Bengaluru reflect the ongoing political tensions between the BJP and Congress in Karnataka, with the G-RAM-G Act and MGNREGA irregularities at the forefront of the debate. His emphasis on technological solutions and procurement approvals aims to showcase the Centre's proactive approach to governance and rural development.
