Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann Challenges VB-G RAM G Bill

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced a special Assembly session to oppose the VB-G RAM G Bill, which aims to replace MGNREGA. Mann criticized the central government for shifting financial burdens onto states and limiting work scope under the new law. Parliament passed the bill amid protests.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has announced that the state government will convene a special Assembly session in January to address the ongoing controversy surrounding the VB-G RAM G Bill, which seeks to replace the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA).

The bill, recently passed by Parliament despite significant opposition, aims to guarantee 125 days of rural wage employment annually. Mann accused the central government of undermining the livelihoods of the poor and imposing additional financial burdens on the states by altering the funding structure of the employment scheme.

The change in policy has sparked concerns over reduced central funding and increased restrictions on eligible work, such as irrigation and school construction projects. Mann urged the Assembly to voice Punjab's opposition against what he views as an overreach by the central government.

(With inputs from agencies.)