CM Stalin Slams Center Over Proposed Changes to MGNREGS, Calls It an Attack on Gandhi’s Legacy

Chennai, Dec 2025 : Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on Monday launched a forceful critique of the BJP-led central government, accusing it of systematically undermining the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS), a flagship program that has been pivotal in alleviating rural poverty across India.

In a statement shared on the social media platform X, Stalin condemned the Center’s proposed move to rename and restructure the scheme, describing it as an ideological assault on Mahatma Gandhi’s legacy and the rights of rural laborers. The Chief Minister alleged that the BJP government, which he said harbors “deep animosity” toward the Father of the Nation, plans to remove Gandhi’s name from the scheme and replace it with a “strange, Sanskrit-sounding, North Indian name,” reportedly “Vikas Bharat Rozgar and Awas Yojana.” Stalin emphasized that the renaming is not merely symbolic but represents a deliberate attempt to weaken the spirit and intent of the program.

Stalin also raised serious concerns about the proposed changes in funding. He pointed out that MGNREGS was originally implemented with 100 percent financial support from the central government. Under the new proposal, the Center intends to reduce its contribution to just 60 percent, which Stalin warned would strain states already heavily investing in social welfare and undermine the scheme’s effectiveness.

Another issue highlighted by the Chief Minister was what he termed the “punishment of success.” He noted that Tamil Nadu, which has achieved significant progress in reducing rural poverty, may face reduced benefits under the revised scheme, depriving eligible rural laborers of vital employment opportunities. He argued that the changes would unfairly penalize states that have successfully implemented the program, undermining years of development work.

Launched in 2005, MGNREGS has provided guaranteed employment for millions through projects related to water conservation, land development, rural roads, and livestock infrastructure. Stalin underscored the program’s critical role in helping millions of rural families live with dignity and gain financial stability.

Citing previous policy reversals, Stalin warned the Center that public opposition would rise against this attempt as it did with the three farm laws and the caste-based census. He urged the government to immediately withdraw the proposed Vikas Bharat – Employment and Livelihood Guarantee Scheme, cautioning that failure to do so would trigger widespread public anger.

The Chief Minister’s strong remarks reflect growing concern among states and civil society groups about the proposed restructuring of MGNREGS, which has long been regarded as a cornerstone of India’s rural development framework. By highlighting both the symbolic and practical implications of the changes, Stalin framed the issue as a matter of ideological principle and social justice, calling on the Center to reconsider its approach.