Ahead of PM Modi’s Tamil Nadu Visit, CM MK Stalin Tables Assembly Resolution Opposing Centre’s G-RAM-G Bill

Chennai: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Friday moved a resolution in the State Assembly opposing the Union government’s decision to replace the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) with a new rural employment programme. He urged the Centre to withdraw the proposed scheme and restore MGNREGA, calling it a vital support system for rural families.

While presenting the resolution, Stalin said the existing employment guarantee scheme has played a crucial role in protecting livelihoods in villages and ensuring income security for the rural poor. He warned that the new proposal would place an additional financial burden on states and could weaken employment opportunities for rural workers.

The resolution was supported by opposition parties in the Assembly, who also criticised the Centre’s move. The issue gained further political significance as it was raised just hours before Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Tamil Nadu.

Taking a sharp dig at the BJP-led central government, Stalin accused it of repeatedly ignoring Tamil Nadu’s demands. He questioned the delay in releasing education funds under the Samagra Shiksha scheme, raised concerns over parliamentary delimitation, and criticised the functioning of the Governor. He also sought clarity on financial support for the promotion of the Tamil language.

The Chief Minister further pointed to delays in welfare schemes, infrastructure development, healthcare funding, and disaster relief assistance. He reiterated the state’s long-standing demand for exemption from the NEET examination, stating that Tamil Nadu’s interests continue to be overlooked.