Congress MLA Pargat Singh Detained in Jammu During 'Save MGNREGA' Protest
In a significant development, Jammu and Kashmir Police detained senior Congress leader and Punjab MLA Pargat Singh during a protest held near the police lines in Jammu. The demonstration was organized as part of the nationwide 'Save MGNREGA' campaign, aimed at addressing critical issues related to the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act.
Peaceful Protest Turns into Detention
Confirming his detention along with other Congress leaders and workers, Pargat Singh emphasized that the protest was entirely peaceful. He stated that the primary objective was to highlight growing concerns over the implementation and funding of MGNREGA, a scheme that has been pivotal in providing wage employment to rural households.
Pargat Singh asserted, "Our protest was non-violent and focused on raising awareness about the protection of MGNREGA and the demand for full statehood for Jammu and Kashmir. We remain committed to advocating for these crucial issues."
March Towards Raj Bhavan and Custody at Jewel Chowk
According to Pargat, Congress workers marched towards Raj Bhavan carrying placards with slogans such as 'Save MGNREGA' and 'Our State, Our Rights'. The demonstration aimed to draw attention to what the party perceives as detrimental changes to the employment guarantee scheme.
He reported that several participants, including himself, were taken into custody at Jewel Chowk. This action by the police has sparked discussions about the right to peaceful assembly and protest in the region.
Historical Context and Allegations Against Funding Changes
The former Punjab education minister provided historical context, noting that MGNREGA was launched during the tenure of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. The scheme guarantees 100 days of wage employment annually to rural households, playing a vital role in poverty alleviation and rural development.
Pargat Singh alleged that recent alterations in funding patterns and administrative provisions have adversely affected the scheme. He claimed that these changes have placed a greater financial burden on states, undermining the effectiveness of MGNREGA.
- Changes in funding mechanisms have reduced central support.
- Administrative hurdles have delayed the release of funds to states.
- The Congress party has launched a nationwide campaign to safeguard the programme.
Congress's Nationwide Campaign for MGNREGA
In response to these challenges, the Congress party has initiated a comprehensive nationwide campaign. The goals of this movement include pressing for the protection of MGNREGA and ensuring the timely release of funds to states. Pargat Singh reiterated that the party will continue to advocate for the rights of rural communities and the restoration of full statehood for Jammu and Kashmir.
This incident underscores the ongoing political tensions and debates surrounding welfare schemes and regional autonomy in India. The detention of a prominent leader like Pargat Singh highlights the intensity of these issues and the determination of political actors to address them through public demonstrations.
