G RAM G Act Brought to Fill Industrialists’ Coffers, Alleges Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Monday strongly criticised the BJP-led Central Government over the newly introduced Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) — G RAM G Act, which has replaced the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). He alleged that the new law was designed to “snatch money from the poor to fill the coffers of rich industrialists” and reflected the Centre’s “anti-Punjab mindset”.

The Chief Minister said the scrapping of MGNREGA through the VB–G RAM G Act was part of a series of decisions that had adversely impacted Punjab. He cited the Agnipath Scheme as another example, alleging that it ended regular recruitment in the armed forces and deprived rural youth of stable livelihood opportunities. “After just three to four years of service, youngsters are sent back home,” Mann said.

Terming the provisions of the G RAM G Act as “anti-poor,” Mann alleged that the legislation vested excessive control with the Central Government, leaving ample scope for manipulation. He warned that non-BJP-ruled states were likely to suffer the most due to the lack of a level playing field.

“Under this framework, states will not be allowed to undertake key labour-intensive works such as irrigation projects, pipeline laying and similar activities. At the same time, the states’ financial contribution has been raised to 40 per cent. We have no objection to contributing more, but the Centre must release rural development funds and the GST share on time,” he said.

The Chief Minister announced that all these issues would be discussed in detail during a special session of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha scheduled for December 30, adding that the BJP would be given a full opportunity to present its views.

Mann further alleged that the Centre was attempting to take control of key institutions including the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB), Panjab University and Chandigarh, thereby undermining Punjab’s authority. “We will oppose and foil all such attempts and will not allow them to succeed,” he asserted.

Reiterating the state government’s commitment to development, Mann said Punjab was not facing any shortage of funds. He assured that civic issues such as garbage management, street lighting and sewage would be resolved soon.

Addressing newly elected zila parishad and block samiti members, the Chief Minister urged them to work for the welfare of all sections of society. “They represent even those who did not vote for them. It is their duty to serve everyone with missionary zeal so that Punjab emerges as a frontrunner in every field,” he said.

Mann also announced that the AAP government would soon launch the Mukhyamantri Sehat Yojana, under which around 65 lakh families would be entitled to cashless medical treatment of up to ₹10 lakh in both government and private hospitals.