Photo Source: Babushahi Bureau
AAP condemns BJP’s changes to MGNREGA, warns of major agitation to protect labourers’ rights
Babushahi Bureau
Amritsar (Punjab), December 28, 2025: The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Sunday launched a sharp attack on the BJP-led Central Government over changes to the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). AAP MLA and Punjab Chief Spokesperson Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal accused the Centre of conspiring to snatch the livelihood of the poor and demanded the withdrawal of the VB-G RAM G Bill, which he said undermines the original MGNREGA.
Addressing a press conference, Dhaliwal said the new law replaces 100 percent Central funding with a 60-40 cost-sharing arrangement, forcing states to bear 40 percent of the expenditure. “When states’ GST already goes to the Centre, how will they arrange this 40 percent? This is a direct attack on poor labourers,” he said.
He expressed concern that under the new policy, employment under MGNREGA will not be available during sowing and harvesting seasons, depriving landless labourers of sustenance. Earlier, the scheme guaranteed 100 days of work, but the amendment has curtailed this entitlement, he added.
Dhaliwal accused the BJP of favouring the wealthy for the past 14 years while strangling the poor. He cited Punjab’s recent floods, noting that although the Centre announced Rs. 1,600 crore in aid, no new funds were released. He further warned that the amendments weaken the powers of Gram Panchayats, Block Samitis, and Zila Parishads, reducing their role in village development.
Demanding immediate action, the AAP leader called for the full reinstatement of the original 2005 MGNREGA law. He assured Punjab’s labourers and poor that the party will fight to protect their rights and employment, and warned of a major struggle if the Centre does not roll back the changes.
“MGNREGA is not charity; it is the right of the poor funded by taxpayers’ money. We will not allow the BJP to snatch food from their mouths,” Dhaliwal said.