Karnataka CM questions removal of Gandhi’s name from NREGA scheme
Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar criticized the Union government for renaming the NREGA scheme, arguing that removing Mahatma Gandhi's name is disrespectful. He emphasized the importance of Gandhian ideology in current political discourse.
Why it matters
Reflects the ongoing ideological conflict between state and central governments regarding historical legacy and national policy branding.
Expressing displeasure over the Union government changing the name of Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme to Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act, 2025, Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar said, “When Gandhiji was killed, almost all member nations of the United Nation Organisation (UNO) lowered their flags to half-mast as a mark of respect. Yet, it remains incomprehensible why the Union government removed Gandhiji’s name from the employment guarantee scheme.”
The Chief Minister questioned, “What harm would be in retaining Gandhiji’s name in the NREGA scheme?” He asserted that there is a need for a detailed discussion on this matter.
Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) president B.K. Hariprasad felicitated civic workers during the Gandhi Jayanti celebrations at KPCC office in Bengaluru. | Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT
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