Amritsar (Dawarka Nath Rana): The MGNREGA funding protest intensified in Punjab as the All India Agricultural Workers Union and CITU jointly organized a demonstration at Bhandaripur in Amritsar. During the protest, workers burned copies of the Centre’s latest notification and MGNREGA-related documents to express their opposition to the revised funding formula.
Moreover, union leaders claimed that the new policy could significantly affect the livelihoods of thousands of economically weaker families who depend on MGNREGA employment.
Unions Raise Concerns Over Revised Funding Pattern
Addressing the gathering, Comrade Sucha Singh Ajnala alleged that the Centre had changed the MGNREGA funding structure.
According to the union, the previous arrangement required the Central Government to contribute 90% of the programme’s budget, while the state government contributed 10%. However, union leaders claimed that the revised formula requires the Centre to contribute 60%, with Punjab covering the remaining 40%.
Furthermore, they argued that Punjab is already under financial pressure and may struggle to bear the increased share.
Workers Warn of Impact on Poor Families
Union representatives stated that the revised funding pattern could reduce employment opportunities for rural labourers.
In addition, they argued that many poor families rely on MGNREGA wages for their daily livelihood. Therefore, they urged the Central Government to withdraw the notification immediately.
They also warned that if authorities fail to reconsider the decision, the unions will intensify their protests across Punjab.
Call for Larger Protest on July 10
Meanwhile, Comrade Jasbir Singh Jhabal thanked the workers for participating in the demonstration.
He also appealed to union members and labourers to assemble in large numbers outside the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Amritsar on July 10. According to the organizers, the rally aims to increase pressure on the government over the revised MGNREGA funding policy.
Unions Continue Campaign Against Notification
Several union members, including Kirpa Ram, Vijay Kumar, Jaspal, Dharampal, Raja Ram, Tarsem, and Vasu Dev, attended the protest.
Furthermore, the organizations reaffirmed their commitment to continuing democratic protests until their demands are addressed.
Conclusion
The MGNREGA funding protest reflects growing concerns among labour unions over the revised funding pattern for the rural employment scheme. As the debate continues, unions have announced further demonstrations while urging the government to reconsider the proposed financial changes.
Key Points of the news:
- Farm workers and CITU staged a protest against the Centre’s revised MGNREGA funding protest.
- Protesters burned copies of the government notification and MGNREGA documents.
- Union leaders claimed the Centre’s funding share has been reduced from 90% to 60%.
- They argued the revised funding pattern would place an additional financial burden on Punjab.
- The unions announced a larger protest at the DC office in Amritsar on July 10.
