TNCC Leaders Detained in Chennai Over MGNREGA Name Change Protest
In a significant political development, Tamil Nadu Congress Committee (TNCC) functionaries, led by state unit president K Selvaperunthagai, were detained by police on Saturday in Chennai. The incident occurred when they attempted to gherao Lok Bhavan, protesting the BJP-led central government's decision to remove the name of freedom fighter Mahatma Gandhi from the National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme, now rebranded as VBGRAMG.
Widespread Protests Across Tamil Nadu
The TNCC had already initiated rallies statewide against the new name VBGRAMG, which replaces the long-standing MGNREGA title. On Saturday, party members assembled at Little Mount in Saidapet, near Lok Bhavan in Chennai, raising slogans condemning the BJP government for the change. As they tried to proceed and surround the government building, police intervened, leading to their detention.
Selvaperunthagai's Firm Stance
Speaking to reporters, Selvaperunthagai declared that the protest against VBGRAMG would persist until the legislation is withdrawn. He drew parallels to the protests against the three farm laws, stating, "We will continue our protest like the protests against three black farm laws. Like the farm laws were repealed after 13 months, our protest will go on until the VBGRAMG is withdrawn." He accused the BJP government of deliberately avoiding schemes named after Mahatma Gandhi, linking it to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
Allegations Against RSS and BJP
Selvaperunthagai further criticized the RSS, claiming it contributed nothing to India's freedom struggle and lacks historical records. He asserted that the BJP is acting as the political wing of the RSS, implementing its ideologies. When questioned about the Rs 5,000 credited under the Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thogai (KMUT) scheme, he defended the state government, alleging that the BJP had planned to challenge a similar women's welfare scheme in the Supreme Court during elections, but Chief Minister Stalin thwarted their efforts.
The protest highlights ongoing tensions between the Congress and BJP over symbolic changes to national schemes, with the TNCC vowing to escalate demonstrations until the original name is restored.
