The Indian National Congress has launched a major nationwide agitation, putting forth three non-negotiable demands to the central government. The announcement was made by Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge during a significant press conference held in New Delhi on January 3, 2026.
Three Core Demands of the Congress Party
Outlining the party's stance clearly, Kharge presented a trio of unequivocal demands. The first is the immediate withdrawal of the VB GRAM G Act, a legislative move the Congress strongly opposes. The second demand is the restoration of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) as a rights-based law, ensuring its foundational principles are upheld. The third and final demand is the restoration of the Right to Work and the authority of Panchayats, decentralizing power and guaranteeing employment.
Nationwide 'MGNREGA Bachao Sangram' Campaign Begins
To rally public support and pressure the government, the Congress has initiated a country-wide movement named "MGNREGA Bachao Sangram" (Save MGNREGA Struggle). This campaign is positioned as a direct response to what the party perceives as systematic undermining of rural employment guarantees and local governance. Senior leader K C Venugopal also highlighted the press conference, signaling a unified front within the party on this issue.
Political Implications and the Road Ahead
This aggressive posture marks a significant escalation in the Congress party's strategy, moving the debate on rural employment and federalism to the forefront of national politics. By launching a dedicated sangram or struggle, the party aims to mobilize its grassroots network and build a coalition of supporters around these specific policy issues. The demands focus on legal safeguards for employment and empowering local governing bodies, setting the stage for a contentious political battle in the coming months.
