Protest Sparks Over MGNREGA Replacement in Karnataka

Karnataka's Congress protested against the BJP-led government's plan to replace MGNREGA, alleging misuse of power and a vendetta campaign, amid criticism over name-changing policies. The protest, led by CM Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM Shivakumar, also condemned actions against Congress leaders in the National Herald case.

The Congress party in Karnataka staged a protest on Wednesday, denouncing the BJP-led central government's move to replace the MGNREGA with a new bill. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar spearheaded the demonstration, challenging the BJP over allegations of hate politics in the National Herald case.

Siddaramaiah accused the Modi government of abusing power by targeting Congress leaders, including Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi. He criticized the proposed legislative changes and the BJP's focus on renaming government properties instead of prioritizing initiatives to help the poor.

Shivakumar further challenged the government to change Mahatma Gandhi's image on the currency notes, intensifying the opposition's stance. The protest unfolded amid a court ruling that dismissed charges against Congress leaders in the ongoing National Herald case, a development seen as a rebuke to the BJP's political strategy.

(With inputs from agencies.)