Mon Mar 09 13:36:51 UTC 2026: Headline: Congress Criticizes Modi Government’s Implementation of VB-G RAM G Act, Citing Hasty Governance
The Story:
On March 9, 2026, the Congress party launched a sharp critique of the Modi government’s implementation of the Viksit Bharat – Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Bill, 2025 (VB-G RAM G Act). Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh accused the government of a “FAST” (First Announce, Subsequently Think) approach, highlighting that the legislation, intended to replace the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, 2005 (MGNREGA), was hastily passed in Parliament in December 2025 without proper consultations or scrutiny. Ramesh pointed out that the details for implementation are still being worked out, despite the Act being scheduled to take effect from April 1, 2026.
Key Points:
- The Viksit Bharat – Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Bill, 2025 (VB-G RAM G Act) was passed in Parliament within two days of its introduction on December 16, 2025.
- Congress alleges the bill, designed to replace MGNREGA, was passed without proper consultations with states or legislative scrutiny.
- Jairam Ramesh claims the Modi government cited “extreme urgency” for the repeal of MGNREGA and its substitution.
- Implementation details of the VB-G RAM G Act are still being worked out as of March 9, 2026, despite the scheduled implementation date of April 1, 2026.
- Congress accuses the government of a “FAST” approach to governance.
Key Takeaways:
- The Congress party is actively challenging the Modi government’s policies, particularly those impacting rural employment.
- The rushed passage of the VB-G RAM G Act raises concerns about the thoroughness of the legislative process and stakeholder engagement.
- The delayed implementation of the Act, despite its imminent effective date, suggests potential planning and execution shortcomings.
- The political battle over rural employment schemes is intensifying, with the Congress framing the new Act as a poorly considered replacement for MGNREGA.
- The effectiveness of the VB-G RAM G Act will likely be closely scrutinized, given the controversy surrounding its passage and implementation.