Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has launched a sharp attack on the Union government, accusing it of undermining the welfare of the nation's most vulnerable citizens. His anger is directed at the central government's decision to replace the long-standing Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) with a newly named law.
Strong Condemnation of the New Act
Speaking at the Sri Amba Mahotsav-2026 fair and during the foundation and inauguration of various development projects in the Sindhanur assembly constituency, the Chief Minister expressed his strong disapproval. He stated that the move to rename and replace MGNREGA with the VB-G RAM G Act is a severe blow to the poor, women, Dalits, and small farmers.
Siddaramaiah revealed that the state of Karnataka used to receive around Rs 6,000 crore annually under the old MGNREGA framework. He condemned the new legislation, stating the Karnataka government's firm opposition and its aim to get it repealed to reinstate the original MGNREGA Act.
Key Change in Funding Burden
The Chief Minister highlighted a critical shift in the financial structure as a major point of contention. Under the previous MGNREGA, the Union government bore the full funding responsibility. However, the new rule mandates a cost-sharing model where the Centre contributes 60% and the state government must shoulder the remaining 40%.
He criticized this change as inappropriate and burdensome for states. Siddaramaiah contrasted the two regimes, noting that the people-oriented MGNREGA was implemented by former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. "Twenty years later, Prime Minister Narendra Modi changed even the name of Mahatma Gandhi to VB-G RAM G," he said, appealing for people across the state to unanimously oppose this move.
Focus on Irrigation Development in Raichur
Shifting focus to state-led development, the Chief Minister emphasized the government's commitment to irrigation projects in the region. He announced that all corporations in the area have been allocated a total of Rs 176 crore.
The breakdown of major allocations includes:
- Salagunda lift irrigation project received Rs 71 crore.
- Malluru lift irrigation was granted Rs 21 crore.
- Valaballari lift irrigation got over Rs 43 crore.
He credited MLA Hampanagouda Badarli for improving the constituency's development. Siddaramaiah assured that water has been provided to more than 30 lakh hectares, as part of an effort to supply water to 42 lakh hectares. Work to supply water to the remaining 12 lakh hectares is reportedly in various stages of completion.
Major Projects Nearing Completion
The Chief Minister also provided updates on other significant infrastructure works. He stated that Rs 431 crore is being spent on the development of the Papayya tunnel and canal, along with the installation of 33 gates at the Tungabhadra reservoir.
"The work will be completed by June to provide water for the next monsoon crop," he assured the public, highlighting the government's focus on ensuring water security for agricultural needs.
