Congress Minister Slams BJP Over MGNREGA Changes, Says 14 Crore Families Harmed

District Minister Shivanand Patil launched a sharp attack on the central government on Sunday. He accused the BJP of making harmful changes to the MGNREGA scheme. Patil stated these alterations have negatively impacted approximately 14 crore poor families across India.

Protest in Haveri Demands Scheme Restoration

The minister spoke at a symbolic strike and one-day fasting protest. The District Congress Committee organized the event at Mailara Mahadevappa Circle in Haveri. This protest formed a key part of the ongoing Save MNREGA movement.

Patil made it clear the Congress party did not oppose the MGNREGA scheme itself. He emphasized the party's strong support for the program. However, he strongly criticized the recent modifications implemented by the central government.

Allegations of Undermining Local Governance

The minister expressed deep concern over laws he believes undermine village panchayats. He said Congress would not tolerate any policies that damage the dignity of the state or weaken local authority. "We are not leaving alone the person we call the Father of the Nation," Patil declared, alleging insults towards Mahatma Gandhi.

He reminded the audience that former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's government originally implemented MGNREGA. The scheme first launched in drought-prone districts before expanding nationwide.

"By altering the scheme, the BJP is engaging in inhumane acts," Patil charged. He argued it is becoming increasingly difficult to protect the interests of farmers and labourers under the current framework.

Financial Impact on Karnataka

Minister Patil highlighted a significant financial shortfall for Karnataka. He revealed that when MGNREGA operated fully, the state received a grant of Rs 4,500 crore. Now, he claimed, even Rs 2,500 crore is not coming through. This reduction makes it impossible to adequately help the poor, according to his assessment.

He stressed that village panchayats should be empowered, not weakened. The scheme must not sacrifice their authority, he insisted.

Political Accusations and State Stance

Patil also made broader political accusations against the ruling party at the centre. He claimed they have ruled for 11 years by constantly bringing up Hindu-Muslim issues. In contrast, he said the Karnataka government engages in enlightened politics. The state needs to manage its affairs in opposition to certain central government policies, he explained.

Prominent Leaders Attend Protest

The protest saw attendance from several notable Congress figures. Council chief whip Saleem Ahmed was present. MLAs U.B. Banakar and Prakash Kolivada also attended. Legislator Rudrappa Lamani joined the demonstration.

Other prominent attendees included: