Overview

On December 16, 2025, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, a prominent Congress leader and Member of Parliament representing Wayanad, staged a significant protest in the Parliament. The protest was directed against a proposed Bill by the Centre aimed at replacing the existing Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). The core concern raised was that the proposed legislation would weaken the legal right to employment currently guaranteed under MGNREGA.

Key Developments

Protest Date: The protest took place on December 16, 2025.
Location: The protest was held within the premises of the Parliament.
Key Figure: Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, a Congress MP, led the protest.
Legislation in Question: A proposed Bill intended to replace MGNREGA.
Main Concern: The bill allegedly weakens the legal right to employment.

UPSC Relevance

This news item is relevant to the UPSC Civil Services Examination, particularly under GS Paper 2 (Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice and International relations). It touches upon critical aspects of government policies, social welfare schemes, and the role of parliamentary proceedings in addressing socio-economic issues. Understanding the nuances of MGNREGA and potential challenges to its implementation is crucial for aspirants.

Important Facts

MGNREGA: Guarantees 100 days of wage employment to rural households.
Legal Right: The act provides a legal right to employment, ensuring social security.
Parliamentary Protest: Highlights the role of opposition in scrutinizing government policies.
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra: A key political figure and MP from Wayanad.
Proposed Bill: Aims to replace the existing MGNREGA framework.

Potential Exam Questions

Prelims: What is the primary objective of MGNREGA? Which political leader recently protested against a bill related to MGNREGA in Parliament? What is the significance of the 'legal right to employment' in the context of social welfare?

Mains: Analyze the effectiveness of MGNREGA in addressing rural unemployment and poverty. Critically evaluate the potential impacts of the proposed bill on the MGNREGA scheme and its beneficiaries. Discuss the role of parliamentary debates and protests in shaping government policies related to social welfare.

Watch: ‘VB-G RAM G’ Bill will weaken MGNREGA: Priyanka Gandhi

Key Points

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