Punjab announces special Assembly Session
Ravi Jakhu
Chandigarh, December 19, 2025:The Punjab government has announced a special session of the Vidhan Sabha after Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann strongly objected to changes proposed by the Central Government to the name and structure of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA).
The Chief Minister termed the Centre’s move an attack on the rights of states and rural workers, alleging that it seeks to dilute the original spirit of the scheme.
According to Mann, the proposed changes would shift a significant financial burden onto state governments, which could severely impact Punjab’s economy. He also described the move as an assault on the federal structure, stating that it undermines the autonomy of states.
Special Session in January
The Punjab government has decided to convene a special Vidhan Sabha session in the second week of January to deliberate on the issue and pass a resolution opposing the Centre’s decision.
The session will focus on resisting the proposed changes to MGNREGA, safeguarding the rights of daily wage workers, and formally conveying the state’s opposition to the Central Government through a resolution.
Significance of MGNREGA in Punjab
MGNREGA plays a vital role in Punjab’s rural economy by providing up to 100 days of guaranteed employment to thousands of families. The scheme also supports essential village-level development works such as cleaning ponds, maintaining parks, and plantation drives.
Political Implications
Chief Minister Mann reiterated that the state would not tolerate any move that harms Punjab’s workers or weakens its financial position. The issue is expected to intensify political confrontation between the Centre and the Punjab government in the coming days.