VB-G RAM G Will Curb Corruption in MGNREGA, Says Karnataka LoP Chalavadi

Bengaluru, Jan 31: Leader of Opposition in the Karnataka Legislative Council Chalavadi Narayanaswamy on Friday alleged that the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) had been riddled with irregularities and asserted that the Union government’s VB-G RAM G initiative was introduced to eliminate corruption and strengthen rural livelihoods.

Speaking during the discussion on the motion of thanks to the Governor’s address, Narayanaswamy said welfare programmes should not be allowed to turn into avenues for misuse. He claimed that contractors in several regions had executed works using machinery while falsely recording them as labour-driven projects, enabling illegal withdrawals from beneficiaries’ bank accounts.

According to him, such practices were prevalent in multiple districts, including Yadgir, Kalaburagi, and Vijayapura. He argued that the VB-G RAM G framework was designed to address these systemic gaps and ensure greater accountability.

Narayanaswamy said the new scheme proposes to increase guaranteed employment from 100 to 125 days and promises higher wages with payments made within a stipulated 14-day period. He also questioned the objections raised over the scheme’s acronym, noting that Mahatma Gandhi’s name was added to the employment programme later and that the inclusion of “Ram” aligned with the concept of Ramarajya envisioned by Gandhi.

Turning his criticism toward the state government, the Opposition leader alleged large-scale financial irregularities in several departments, including excise and urban development bodies. He further accused the government of diverting funds meant for Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe welfare schemes and raised concerns over law and order, citing recent incidents and the easy availability of drugs in the state.

Meanwhile, proceedings of the Legislative Council resumed smoothly on Friday after three days of disruptions. The House had witnessed repeated adjournments since January 27 amid protests by Opposition members over remarks related to the Governor’s address, while Congress members objected to what they termed disrespect to the National Anthem.

Council Chairman Basavaraj Horatti said the impasse had been resolved following consultations with leaders from both sides. He stated that a ruling had been issued on the matter and urged members to uphold the dignity of the House, warning of strict action against further disruptions.