Lok Sabha Passes Bill to Replace MGNREGA Amid Criticism from Opposition and Shivraj Chouhan's Defense

The Lok Sabha passed a bill to replace the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), prompting criticism from opposition parties and activists. They argue the new legislation undermines the demand-driven framework of MGNREGA by removing its universality and centralizing decision-making.

Shivraj Chouhan, the Rural Development and Agriculture Minister, defended the Modi government's actions, citing an increase in employment days under MGNREGA from 1,660 crore to 3,210 crore and budget allocations from Rs 2.13 lakh crore under the UPA government to Rs 8.53 lakh crore during Modi's tenure. He stated the new scheme allocates Rs 1,51,282 crore, with the Centre contributing Rs 95,000 crore. Chouhan accused Congress of hypocrisy regarding Gandhi's legacy and claimed MGNREGA had become corrupt, necessitating reform.