Centre omits West Bengal in MGNREGS dues reply, despite Calcutta High Court order
The Rural Development Ministry, in a Rajya Sabha reply regarding pending Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) dues to States, omitted any reference to West Bengal. The scheme has been suspended in West Bengal since March 2022. This omission occurred despite a Calcutta High Court order on June 18, directing the Union government to resume the scheme in the State. The Ministry stated it is studying the court order to decide on further action, highlighting ongoing tensions regarding federal financial relations and implementation of central schemes.
Key Points
- The Rural Development Ministry's reply on MGNREGS dues to States excluded West Bengal, where the scheme has been suspended since March 2022.
- This omission comes despite a Calcutta High Court order on June 18, directing the Union government to resume the MGNREGS scheme in West Bengal.
- The Ministry indicated it is reviewing the High Court's order to determine its next steps.
- The issue highlights ongoing disputes between the Centre and West Bengal regarding the implementation and funding of central schemes.
- MGNREGS aims to provide 100 days of wage employment to rural households.
Exam Facts
- The scheme in question is the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS).
- MGNREGS has been suspended in West Bengal since March 2022.
- The Calcutta High Court issued an order on June 18 directing the Union government to resume the scheme.
- The Ministry of Rural Development is responsible for MGNREGS.
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