Karnataka congress moves resolution to repeal VB‑G RAM G Act, urge MGNREGA restoration

The Karnataka Congress government on Tuesday moved a resolution in the Legislative Assembly urging the Centre to repeal the VB‑G RAM G Act and reinstate the UPA-era MGNREGA in its original form , amid strong opposition from the BJP. The resolution was moved by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah , who read out the House’s demand to protect the rights and livelihoods of rural communities.

The CM described the new law, officially titled Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act , as unilateral, against federal principles, financially burdensome for the state, and undermining decentralisation. He emphasised that MGNREGA had been a “Sanjeevini” for rural India, enabling asset creation, self-reliance, and empowering Gram Panchayats under the Panchayati Raj system.

Karnataka’s objections centre on several key points: the VB‑G RAM G Act weakens the legal right to work guaranteed under MGNREGA, centralises planning and execution , and shifts a larger financial burden onto states . The government argued that rural workers, especially women, small farmers, and marginalised communities, could lose access to guaranteed employment under the new framework.

BJP members, led by Leader of Opposition R Ashoka , objected to the language in the resolution, stating that the House itself should not be shown as opposing the Act. Siddaramaiah continued reading the resolution, prompting opposition protests and slogans. The resolution also refers to the Act as VB-GRAM-G , rather than the correct VB‑G RAM G, drawing further criticism from the opposition.

The move highlights the federal tensions between the Centre and states , with Karnataka asserting its autonomy over rural development policies and local governance , while challenging what it views as an encroachment on rights, finances, and decentralised decision-making. The state had earlier decided to challenge the Act legally and mobilise public opposition, signalling a protracted conflict over rural employment rights.