The debate that lasted for about 14 hours on the Vikas Bharat Ji Ram Ji (Rural Employment and Livelihood Mission) Amendment Bill in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday increased the political temperature. The opposition demanded sending the bill to a standing committee, while the BJP called it a decisive step towards the goal of a developed India by 2047. There was a heated argument between the ruling party and the opposition in the discussion that lasted till late night.
Congress MP K Suresh said in the House that the bill is very important and a thorough investigation is necessary. He argued that the participation of more than 98 MPs in itself shows how sensitive the bill is. The INDIA alliance unanimously demanded that it be sent to the Standing Committee. The opposition alleges that the government wants to pass this law in a hurry.
Opposition to name change
Congress MP Vamsi Krishna Gaddam expressed strong objection to changing the name of the scheme. He said that the country loves Mahatma Gandhi, but BJP is trying to erase his identity. They allege that earlier 100 percent central funding has now been given to 40 percent states, which will put additional burden on the states.
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Question on financial structure
Congress MP Praniti Shinde said that the government is in a hurry to pass the bill even before the discussion is completed. He alleged that this bill has been weakened and an attempt is being made to rewrite history through it. At the same time, Congress MP Gurjit Singh Aujla taunted that the government wants to give a political message by changing the name, while attention is being diverted from the real issues.
BJP’s answer
BJP MP Jagdambika Pal rejected the opposition’s allegations and said that this bill is going to bring Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of developed India on the ground. He said that under the new law, 125 days of employment will be ensured in rural areas, whereas in the existing scheme this limit was 100 days. He claims that this will create a cycle of employment throughout the year in the villages.
Transparency and technology
BJP MP Basavaraj S. Bommai said that this bill has not been brought to please the opposition, but as per the changing needs of rural India. He said that use of technology will prevent misuse of funds and participation of states will increase accountability. At the same time, BJP MP Nishikant Dubey made a direct attack on Congress and said that the old scheme had become a center of corruption and the new provisions will curb it.
After this historic debate, air pollution will be discussed in the Lok Sabha on Thursday. In this discussion to be held on the demand of Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, Environment Minister Bhupendra Yadav will answer at 5 pm. The government has assured that the discussion will focus on solutions. At present, the ongoing political conflict over the Vikas Bharat Ji Ram Ji Bill has completely heated up the atmosphere in the Parliament.
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