Karnataka Minister Slams Centre's MGNREGA Replacement as 'Manuvada' Move
Social Welfare Minister HC Mahadevappa made strong allegations against the Union government on Monday. He spoke to reporters in Mysuru about the recent decision to replace the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). The minister called the move a reflection of the BJP's true Manuvada mindset.
Congress to Launch People's Movement
Mahadevappa declared that the Congress party will launch a people's movement against the new scheme. He warned that the Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) or VB-G RAM G will push vulnerable groups towards hunger. The minister specifically mentioned the poor, OBCs, SCs, STs, and tribal populations as those who will suffer.
"The Congress will not allow this destruction of lives," Mahadevappa stated firmly. He serves as both the social welfare minister and the Mysuru district minister.
Allegations of BJP's Hatred Towards Gandhi
The minister alleged that the BJP's hatred towards Mahatma Gandhi became visible once again through this decision. He charged that the Modi-led government insulted the country at the global level by scrapping MGNREGA. According to Mahadevappa, the VB-G RAM G Act received approval through parliamentary bulldozing rather than proper democratic process.
He highlighted MGNREGA's two-decade legacy of helping crores of people from weaker sections of society. The scheme proved particularly crucial during the Covid-19 pandemic when it saved millions from starvation.
Impact on Karnataka's Labour Force
Mahadevappa provided specific numbers about MGNREGA's reach in Karnataka. The state has 71.1 lakh labourers enrolled under the scheme. More than 51% of these workers are women. The minister expressed deep concern about how the new Act might affect their livelihoods.
He made another serious allegation against the Union government. "By scrapping MGNREGA, they are attempting to provide cheap labour to corporate agricultural companies," Mahadevappa claimed.
Defending MGNREGA Against Corruption Charges
The minister responded to allegations about large-scale corruption in MGNREGA implementation. He pointed to his own tenure as rural development and panchayat raj minister. During that period, he introduced the ombudsman system and made social audits of works mandatory. These measures aimed to ensure transparency and accountability.
Mahadevappa also criticised BJP and JD(S) leaders for supporting the scrapping of MGNREGA. He questioned their motives and commitment to protecting vulnerable communities.
Other Developments Discussed
The minister addressed additional matters during his interaction with reporters. He assured that the expenses list for Dasara 2025 will receive release soon. This transparency measure addresses public interest in festival expenditures.
Regarding the BJP's proposed padayatra to Ballari, Mahadevappa recalled Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's 2010 padayatra. That earlier march protested against the Ballari Republic's exploitation of natural resources. "Now we want to know which forces support this new padayatra," the minister stated pointedly.
The controversy over MGNREGA's replacement continues to generate heated political debate across Karnataka. Minister Mahadevappa's strong statements reflect growing opposition to the central government's policy shift.
