Punjab resolution against VB-G RAM G Act ‘undemocratic’, says Chouhan

Union Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Tuesday criticised the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Punjab for passing a resolution against the Viksit Bharat G-RAM G Act, calling it “undemocratic” and contrary to the spirit of the Constitution.

Addressing a press conference, Mr. Chouhan said States were constitutionally bound to implement laws enacted by Parliament. “Passing a resolution against a Parliamentary law in a State Assembly goes against our constitutional framework,” he said.

The Punjab Vidhan Sabha, during a one-day session, had adopted a resolution opposing the new rural employment law, alleging that it diluted safeguards under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). The resolution was moved by Punjab Rural Development and Panchayat Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond.

Mr. Chouhan accused the Opposition of indulging in “blind opposition politics”. Targeting Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, he said, “Speaking whatever comes to one’s mind is not responsible politics. Mr. Gandhi lives in a world of imagination.” He was referring to Mr. Gandhi’s remarks comparing the VB-G RAM G Act to demonetisation and alleging that it was drafted by the Prime Minister’s Office without consulting the Cabinet or the concerned Ministry.

The Union Minister reiterated that both the Centre and the States were duty-bound to implement laws passed by Parliament. “What the Punjab government and some political parties are doing is improper and undemocratic,” he said.

Citing official findings, Mr. Chouhan alleged large-scale corruption in the implementation of MGNREGA in Punjab. “Social audits were conducted in only 5,915 of the 13,304 gram panchayats. The report mentions 10,653 cases of financial embezzlement, but no action was taken,” he said.

He further alleged that irregular expenditure had been incurred on activities not permitted under the scheme and that workers had complained of non-payment of wages. “No effort is being made to curb corruption. Instead, resolutions are being passed against Parliamentary laws. This reflects an undemocratic mindset,” he said.