Congress Stands Firm Against New Employment Bill in Parliament Clash

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will oppose the new employment bill replacing MGNREGA in Lok Sabha. The new bill, introduced by the government, promises increased wage employment days but faces criticism from Congress for allegedly erasing Gandhi's legacy. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will also propose amendments to insurance laws.

In a heated session in the Lok Sabha, Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is set to oppose the Viksit Bharat - Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Bill, 2025, intended to overhaul the existing MGNREGA framework. Scheduled for discussion at noon, the bill suggests replacing a two-decade-old employment guarantee scheme with one that offers an extended 125 days of wage employment per rural household.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge strongly criticized this move, labeling it a direct attack on Mahatma Gandhi's legacy, as it coincides with the centenary of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). Kharge called out the Modi-led government for allegedly attempting to erase Gandhi's influence while emphasizing the BJP's historical opposition to Gandhi, invoking the long-standing animosities linked to Nathuram Godse.

The day's packed agenda includes Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's proposal to amend key insurance laws, targeting enhancements in India's insurance framework. Legislation will be introduced to modernize regulations affecting the Insurance Act of 1938, the Life Insurance Corporation Act of 1956, and the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority Act of 1999, amidst varied legislative business, committee reports, and ministerial statements.

(With inputs from agencies.)