Sri Vijaya Puram | January 31, 2026
The Andaman & Nicobar Territorial Congress Committee (ANTCC) on Friday organised a public meeting under the banner “MGNREGA Bachao Sangram” at Ward No. 11, South Point, to discuss issues related to MGNREGA workers and the livelihoods of island residents.
The meeting was held under the leadership of ANTCC President Mr. Rangalal Halder. Addressing the gathering, Congress leaders raised concerns over the implementation of policies affecting the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). They alleged that provisions in the new act could have an adverse impact on employment opportunities under the scheme.
According to the speakers, issues such as job insecurity, delays in wage payments and a perceived weakening of guaranteed employment have affected workers, particularly those from poor and marginalised sections. The leaders stated that the Congress party would oppose any policy measures that, in its view, weaken the employment guarantee framework.
In addition to MGNREGA-related matters, Congress leaders also highlighted local issues, including unemployment among youths, rising cost of living, inadequate civic amenities, delays in the implementation of welfare schemes and gaps in basic infrastructure in the Islands. They said these concerns would be taken up at appropriate forums.
Senior Congress leaders present at the meeting included Mr. Ratan Behari, District President Mr. John Robert Babu, Mahila Congress President Ms. Zubaida Begum, City Congress President Mr. Mohd. Zubair, Youth Congress Vice-President Mr. M.A. Sajid, OBC Chairman Mr. R.K. Raj, City Congress General Secretary Mr. Sadab Riaz, and former Municipal Chairperson and Councillor Mr. Mahender Prasad, along with other party functionaries and local residents.
The meeting concluded with a resolution by party leaders to continue the “MGNREGA Bachao Sangram” campaign. The programme was organised by Ward No. 11 Municipal Councillor Mr. Sanjeev Reddy and City Congress General Secretary Mr. Raj Reddy.
