Congress to Stage Raj Bhavan Chalo Rally in Bengaluru Against MGNREGA Repeal
The Congress party has announced it will organize a significant 'Raj Bhavan Chalo' protest in Bengaluru on Tuesday, as part of its escalating campaign against the repeal of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). This development comes amid growing political tensions in Karnataka, with the BJP and its alliance partner JD(S) planning a counter-demonstration at the Vidhana Soudha complex.
Congress Plans Major Protest and Padayatra
Speaking at the party's state headquarters on Monday, Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) Chief D K Shivakumar revealed that while the Congress initially considered gheraoing the BJP party office, they ultimately decided to proceed with the Raj Bhavan Chalo rally. He emphasized that participation is mandatory for all Congress legislators, stating, "All legislators must participate in this mandatorily."
Shivakumar further outlined the party's strategy, noting that they are prepared to take a decision regarding the MGNREGA repeal in the Assembly as well. "We will continue our protest under the leadership of Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi until the scheme is reintroduced," he asserted, highlighting the party's commitment to the cause.
Assembly Resolution and Financial Concerns
On the proposed Assembly resolution, Shivakumar explained that the Karnataka government will urge the Centre to withdraw VB G RAM G, which has replaced MGNREGA. He drew parallels to the withdrawal of farm laws, suggesting a similar approach should be taken. "It should be withdrawn in the same manner in which farm laws were withdrawn," he said, pointing out the financial burden the new scheme imposes on states.
He also addressed allegations of irregularities in MGNREGA implementation, challenging critics to engage in a debate. "If that is the case, why did they give the award to Kanakapura taluk? If there is irregularity, let them take action," Shivakumar countered, defending the Congress's record.
Additional Protests and Padayatra Initiatives
In addition to the Raj Bhavan Chalo rally, the Congress has planned a protest at Freedom Park following the main event. Moreover, the party announced it will hold a five-kilometre padayatra in each Assembly constituency across the state on Tuesday, further amplifying their campaign against the MGNREGA repeal.
BJP and JD(S) Counter-Demonstration Plans
Meanwhile, the BJP and its alliance partner JD(S) have announced they will stage a demonstration in front of the Gandhi statue at the Vidhana Soudha complex on Tuesday. Legislators from both parties, led by BJP state president B Y Vijayendra and Leader of Opposition R Ashoka, will protest what they describe as "goondaism and insult committed" by Congress legislators against the Governor during his address to the joint session of the legislature.
The Opposition has also decided to demand the resignation of Excise Minister R B Thimmapur over alleged corruption charges, adding another layer to the political confrontation.
This series of protests underscores the deepening political divide in Karnataka, with both sides mobilizing their supporters and legislators to voice their stances on key issues like MGNREGA and governance accountability.
