Fiery Clash in Lok Sabha: MNREGA Funds Debate Heats Up

Trinamool MP Kalyan Banerjee clashed with treasury bench members in Lok Sabha, condemning the stoppage of MNREGA funds for West Bengal. Accusing the Ministry of inaction against fraud, Banerjee demanded investigations instead of halting funds affecting 10 crore people. Speaker Om Birla advised MPs to choose their words wisely.

In a heated Lok Sabha session, Trinamool MP Kalyan Banerjee engaged in a verbal clash with treasury bench members over the halted MNREGA funds for West Bengal. Banerjee criticized the government for citing fraud cases as a reason to suspend funds, urging immediate investigative action against the identified misuse.

Addressing the issue, Banerjee pointedly challenged Union Minister Giriraj Singh, questioning his conduct as a central minister. This prompted objections from the treasury benches, escalating tensions further. Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal also expressed disapproval of the language employed by Banerjee.

In the midst of the debate, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla intervened to maintain decorum, advising MPs to direct their points to the chair and avoid engaging off-record. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman reiterated concerns over genuine cases compromised by fraudulent activities within MNREGA operations.

(With inputs from agencies.)