Sri Vijaya Puram | January 4, 2026
The Andaman and Nicobar Territorial Congress Committee (ANTCC) on Friday organised a public meeting at Ward No. 14 to strongly oppose the Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act, 2025 — commonly known as the VB-G RAM G Act — enacted by the BJP-led Central Government, which replaces the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), 2005.
Speakers at the gathering criticised the new law, which they claim undermines the livelihood security of rural workers, small farmers, women and economically weaker sections who have relied on MGNREGA as a vital source of employment.
Addressing the crowd, ANTCC President Mr. Rangalal Halder, City Congress President Mr. Mohd Zubair, Youth Congress Vice-President Mr. M.A. Sajid, OBC Chairman Mr. R.K. Raj and INTUC General Secretary Mr. Mohd Rafi condemned the Central Government’s move. They said that the repeal of the rights-based MGNREGA in favour of the new Act would adversely affect employment, livelihood security and rural development across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
“The people of rural India built their lives around MGNREGA’s promise of guaranteed work and social protection,” said one leader, “and replacing it with a framework that shifts costs to states and changes the nature of guarantees will hurt the poorest.”
In addition to voicing opposition to the VB-G RAM G Act, participants discussed several local issues affecting residents of Ward No. 14. Congress leaders assured attendees that they would continue to raise these concerns in appropriate forums and advocate for solutions.
The meeting was organised by Congress leadercS. Sita Lakshmi, who coordinated efforts and ensured active participation and smooth conduct. Among those present were Congress Seva Dal Joint Secretary Mr. Akshay Kumar, local residents and members of the general public.
