National Times Bureau :- The passage of the Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM G) Bill, 2025, replacing the MGNREGA framework, sparked intense political confrontation in Parliament, exposing deep divisions between the ruling BJP and opposition parties over rural welfare. The legislation, approved by both Houses amid protests, raises the guaranteed employment entitlement for rural households from 100 to 125 days.
Opposition parties, including the Congress and Aam Aadmi Party, accused the government of pushing the Bill through in haste and diluting long-standing safeguards for labourers. Congress MP Imran Pratapgarhi termed the move a “blot on democracy,” alleging that the Centre ignored repeated demands to refer the Bill to a Select Committee. AAP MP Sanjay Singh described the law as anti-farmer and anti-labourer, predicting it would eventually be withdrawn, similar to the repealed farm laws.
The BJP strongly defended the reform. Party MP Dinesh Sharma welcomed the Bill, calling it a transformative step that would enhance wages, extend employment days, and encourage entrepreneurship among rural workers. Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said the legislation reflects Mahatma Gandhi’s ideals and would significantly strengthen welfare delivery.
The Bill also outlines a 60:40 Centre–State funding pattern, with higher central support for special category states. Opposition members staged a walkout from the Rajya Sabha before its passage, while nationwide protests have been announced against the law.
