‘The Aravalli range is the lifeline of Rajasthan,’ former minister Ramlal Jat targets the central government
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Ram Lal Jat, president of the Bhilwara District Congress (Rural) and former Revenue Minister of Rajasthan, has strongly criticized the central government’s policies. He stated that the current decisions are a direct attack on democracy, the constitution, and the spirit of the working class. He described the central government’s working style as a symbol of a dictatorial mindset.
He also criticized the government regarding mining in the Aravalli mountain range and the Sariska region. He said that the Aravalli range is the lifeline of Rajasthan, and it maintains the balance of rainfall in the state. If it is destroyed, Rajasthan could turn into a desert. He added that such decisions are not only a compromise with the environment but are also fatal for humanity and indirectly benefit the country’s enemies. Objection Raised to Changing MGNREGA’s Name
In his address, Jat strongly objected to the decision to change the name of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGA). He said that this is not merely a name change, but a conspiracy to weaken the rights of rural poor and laborers.
The former minister said that earlier, the MGNREGA action plan was formulated at the Gram Panchayat level, which ensured employment and development according to local needs. However, the central government has now snatched this right from the Panchayats and imposed schemes from above, which is against the democratic system.
Street Play Depicts Consequences of Name Change
During the protest, Congress workers effectively presented the negative consequences of changing the name of MGNREGA and curtailing its rights through a street play. The atmosphere at the venue resonated with slogans like “Withdraw the black laws,” and “Restore NREGA.”
Several senior Congress leaders and office-bearers were present on the occasion, including Akshay Tripathi, Kailash Vyas, Anil Dangi, Madhu Jaju, Hemendra Sharma, Rajendra Trivedi, Omprakash Naraniwal, Hagamilal Mewara, and Gyanmel Khatik.
At the end of the program, the speakers unanimously demanded that the central government withdraw the anti-people decisions, restore MGNREGA to its original form, and prioritize environmental protection. They also warned, with the beating of drums and cymbals, that if their demands are not met, the movement will be intensified.
