The Chief Minister asserted that MGNREGA, conceived as a transformative employment guarantee initiative inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s ideals, has drifted from its core mandate. He alleged that the vision championed by former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and Congress leader Sonia Gandhi—who played key roles in shaping the programme—has been weakened, to the detriment of rural workers and economically vulnerable communities.
Using the protest as a platform to amplify his concerns, Sukhu called for the immediate restoration of MGNREGA’s demand-driven framework, stressing that access to guaranteed employment must not be curtailed by administrative or policy constraints. He warned that any dilution of the scheme directly impacts rural households that depend on it for income security and dignity of work.
The demonstration, described by officials as peaceful and symbolic, was intended to convey a clear political message rather than disrupt public order. Sukhu reiterated that safeguarding the interests of rural labourers requires strengthening, not scaling back, MGNREGA’s provisions. He emphasised that the programme remains a critical pillar of rural development and social protection, particularly in hill states like Himachal Pradesh.
The Chief Minister’s remarks come amid broader national debates over funding, implementation delays, and the operational autonomy of MGNREGA. By taking his protest to the public domain, Sukhu positioned the issue as one of both governance and moral responsibility, underscoring its long-term implications for rural employment and social equity across India.
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