Congress MLA Pargat Singh Detained in Jammu During 'Save MGNREGA' Protest
Jammu and Kashmir Police detained senior Congress leader and Punjab MLA Pargat Singh during a protest held near the police lines in Jammu as part of the 'Save MGNREGA' campaign. The detention occurred as Congress leaders and workers gathered to voice their concerns regarding the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act.
Peaceful Protest and Detention Details
Confirming his detention along with other Congress leaders and workers, Pargat Singh emphasized that the protest was entirely peaceful. He stated that the demonstration aimed to highlight critical issues related to the protection of MGNREGA and the ongoing demand for full statehood for Jammu and Kashmir.
According to Pargat, Congress workers marched towards Raj Bhavan carrying placards with messages such as 'Save MGNREGA' and 'Our State, Our Rights'. The protest culminated at Jewel Chowk, where several participants, including Pargat Singh himself, were taken into custody by the authorities.
Background on MGNREGA and Allegations
The former Punjab education minister provided context on the employment guarantee scheme, noting that it was launched during the tenure of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. MGNREGA was designed to provide 100 days of wage employment to rural households under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, aiming to bolster economic security in rural areas.
Pargat Singh alleged that recent changes in funding patterns and administrative provisions have adversely affected the scheme. He claimed these modifications have placed a greater financial burden on states, undermining the program's effectiveness and accessibility for rural communities.
Congress's Nationwide Campaign
In response to these challenges, the Congress party has launched a nationwide campaign to press for safeguarding the MGNREGA programme. The campaign focuses on ensuring the timely release of funds to states and advocating for the protection of the scheme's original intent and benefits.
Pargat reiterated the party's commitment to raising issues concerning MGNREGA and the demand for full statehood for Jammu and Kashmir. He emphasized that such protests are crucial for drawing attention to these matters and mobilizing public support for their resolution.
