Why in the News?

A Public Interest Litigation has been filed before the Madras High Court challenging key provisions of the Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission Gramin Act, 2025, which replaced the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, 2005.

Background

• The earlier law, Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, provided a statutory right to 100 days of wage employment to rural households and was regarded as one of the world’s largest social protection programmes.
• The new Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act has altered the funding pattern, administrative control and implementation structure.
• The matter is likely to be heard by a Division Bench of the Madras High Court.

Key Issues Raised in the PIL

• Change in Cost Sharing Ratio

• • • Earlier under MGNREGA: Centre and States shared costs in 90:10 ratio.
    • Under new Act: 90:10 only for Northeastern and Himalayan States
    • 60:40 for other States
    • Petitioner argues this increases fiscal burden on States and weakens federal balance.

• Reduction in Panchayat Autonomy

• • • MGNREGA made Gram Panchayats principal implementing authority.
    • Linked to the 73rd Constitutional Amendment which strengthened local self government.
    • Allegation that the new Act dilutes decentralisation guarantees.

• Constitutional Challenge

• • • The petition claims certain provisions violate:
    • Article 14: Equality before law
    • Article 16: Equality of opportunity
    • Article 21: Protection of life and personal liberty
    • Argument: Right to livelihood is part of Article 21 jurisprudence.

• Specific Sections Challenged

• • Sections 3(1), 4(5), 5(1), 6(2), 22, 30, 34 and 37 of the new Act are alleged to be unjust and anti federal.
  • Section 3(1): Requires States to frame schemes consistent with the Act within six months of commencement.

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