Union Minister Kiren Rijiju made strong remarks about rural employment schemes during a press conference in Lucknow on Tuesday. He described the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) as a "guarantee of loot." Rijiju claimed that corruption thrived under the old program due to loopholes.
New Act Eliminates Corruption Possibilities
Rijiju praised the newly enacted Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Aajeevika Mission (Grameen) Act, known as VB-G RAM G. He said this law leaves no scope for corruption. The minister explained that the previous MGNREGA allowed financial irregularities to flourish. In contrast, the new Act eliminates such possibilities altogether.
Digital Framework for Real-Time Monitoring
The Union Minister highlighted key features of the VB-G RAM G Act. It provides a fully digitised framework. This system incorporates zonal and satellite mapping. Real-time monitoring of projects is ensured from grassroots to higher administrative levels. Rijiju asserted that this leaves no room for financial mismanagement.
Response to Opposition Criticism
Rijiju addressed criticism from opposition parties about replacing MGNREGA. He urged people not to be misled by what he called misinformation. The minister compared this situation to the enactment of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). He alleged that false propaganda was spread then with claims about Muslims losing citizenship.
"Nothing of that sort happened," Rijiju stated. He added that deliberate attempts are now being made to mislead people over the VB-G RAM G Act as well. The minister emphasized that the new law has already come into force. Implementation has begun, and changes will be visible soon.
Focus on Outcomes Over Nomenclature
On allegations about removing Mahatma Gandhi's name by scrapping MGNREGA, Rijiju responded firmly. He said the focus should be on outcomes rather than nomenclature. The press conference followed a state-level BJP workshop in Lucknow. Senior Uttar Pradesh BJP leaders attended, including ministers of the state government.
Rijiju's comments come amid ongoing debates about rural employment schemes in India. His strong language reflects the government's push for transparency and efficiency. The VB-G RAM G Act represents a significant shift in how such programs are administered and monitored.
