Political : Row Intensifies Over VB-G RAM G Act After Chouhan Targets Rahul Gandhi
Political : Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has launched a sharp political attack on Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, accusing him of creating unnecessary controversy over the Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin), widely known as the VB-G RAM G Act. The remarks have added fresh fuel to the ongoing political debate surrounding the recently passed employment legislation.
Allegations of Political Drama Over New Employment Law
Shivraj Singh Chouhan alleged that Rahul Gandhi and the Indian National Congress were indulging in political drama despite the Leader of the Opposition reportedly being unfamiliar with even the name of the Act. According to Chouhan, the controversy reflects a lack of seriousness toward parliamentary processes and public policy discussions related to rural employment and livelihood security.
X Post Highlights Rahul Gandhi’s Remarks
In a post shared on X, Chouhan circulated a video clip from Rahul Gandhi’s address at the National MGNREGA Workers’ Convention, organised by the Rachnatmak Congress. In the clip, Rahul Gandhi is heard admitting that he does not recall the exact name of the newly enacted law. Chouhan used this statement to question Gandhi’s engagement with the legislative process and his understanding of the bill he is now criticising.
Parliament Debate and Absence Claims
Chouhan claimed that the VB-G RAM G Act was discussed extensively during late-night sessions in both Houses of Parliament of India. He stated that members from both the ruling coalition and the Opposition participated in detailed debates, while the country closely followed the proceedings. According to him, Rahul Gandhi was absent during these discussions due to a foreign visit, making the current opposition to the Act appear contradictory.
Sarcasm Over Public Appearances
The Union Minister also took a sarcastic swipe at Rahul Gandhi’s recent public appearances, particularly reports suggesting that the Congress leader participated in manual labour activities. Chouhan mockingly referred to visuals where Rahul Gandhi appeared to be guided on tying a gamchha and using a spade, suggesting that such symbolic acts were being used to compensate for what he described as a lack of substantive legislative involvement.
Key Features of the VB-G RAM G Act
The VB-G RAM G Act was passed during the Winter Session of Parliament in 2025. One of its major provisions is the expansion of the employment guarantee from 100 days to 125 days for eligible rural households. The government has positioned the law as a step toward strengthening rural livelihoods and aligning employment schemes with the broader vision of a developed India.
Opposition Concerns and Criticism
Despite the extended employment guarantee, the Opposition has raised objections to the Act. Critics argue that the legislation removes the reference to Mahatma Gandhi from the scheme and alters the earlier 60:40 funding ratio between the Centre and the states. These changes, according to the Congress, could weaken the federal balance and dilute the original spirit of rural employment programmes.
Political Impact Going Forward
The exchange between Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Rahul Gandhi highlights the deepening political divide over welfare legislation and governance priorities. As debates around rural employment, funding structures, and symbolic representation continue, the VB-G RAM G Act is likely to remain a focal point of political discourse in the months ahead.