Kharge vows to continue fight against G Ram G issue

Bengaluru: The Congress party has reaffirmed its resolve to continue opposing the controversial G Ram G bill, rejecting claims that the fight would stop amid criticisms from the opposition. In a sharp response to HD Kumaraswamy’s criticism that Congress is pro-corporate, AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge asserted that the party will not let the issue rest and remains committed to safeguarding the rights of the poor.

Speaking to the media in Bengaluru, Kharge said, “I do not react to every statement, but our opposition to the G Ram G bill will not stop. We will not leave this matter here. The provisions under Manrega were designed to benefit workers and the poor. Even schemes initiated by Manmohan Singh were meant to fill the stomachs of the underprivileged. However, the current government is obstructing laws aimed at helping the poor.”

Kharge criticized the state government for imposing additional burdens under the bill, alleging that the proposed 60:40 sharing arrangement would add 30% extra financial strain on the state. He accused the ruling party of deliberately trying to halt development work carried out through panchayats and of obstructing welfare measures intended for the disadvantaged.

The Congress president also highlighted that the intent of the government appears to be stopping benefits from reaching the poor. “Regardless of any explanations they provide, the measures are unjust. Those who question the provisions of MNREGA are aligned with audit agencies under their control. Even the CAG report shows that the program has created assets,” Kharge said. He added that attempts to oppose the program are being unfairly portrayed as political attacks by the BJP.

Kharge further slammed Prime Minister Modi, accusing the central government of favouring corporate interests over the welfare of the poor. “Instead of assisting the underprivileged, they are facilitating corporate houses and cutting funds for MNREGA. I strongly condemn these actions. Our fight will continue until the bill is rolled back. We will not leave this issue unresolved,” he said emphatically.

The remarks come amid a heated political environment, with Congress and other opposition parties expressing strong resistance to the G Ram G bill, citing concerns that it undermines social welfare schemes and burdens state governments while benefiting corporate entities. Kharge’s statement underscores Congress’s determination to pursue the matter in both public forums and parliamentary debates, promising continued advocacy for the rights of vulnerable communities.