Nearly 5,000 NREGA (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act 2005) workers from across India have reached out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urgently calling for the immediate resumption of NREGA projects in West Bengal to safeguard the livelihoods of countless workers in the state.
This plea follows the order by the Central Government in December 2021, when it had invoked Section 27 of the Act to halt NREGA funding for West Bengal, leading to a complete freeze on projects and leaving workers without their wages for nearly three years.
However, in a powerful demonstration of solidarity, the workers, organized under the banner of NREGA Sangharsh Morcha, collectively contributed one rupee each toward the NREGA budget for West Bengal, signaling their commitment to the program and its critical role in their lives.
Various organizations have rallied to support this cause, including the Bihar Jan Jagran Shakti Sangathan, Jan Vikas Shakti Sangathan, Pravasi Mazdoor Sangathan, Uttar Pradesh Sangatin Kisan Mazdoor Sangathan, Jharkhand Khadya Suraksha Jan Adhikar Manch, Chhattisgarh Kisan Mazdoor Sangathan, Gujarat Anna Suraksha Adhikar Abhiyan, Andhra Pradesh Ambedkarijame Punadi, and Telangana Dalit Bahujan Front.
Last month, a dedicated 15-member delegation representing these worker unions had met with Shailesh Kumar, the Secretary for Rural Development, to advocate for the urgent release of funds and the prompt restart of NREGA activities in West Bengal.
The delegation articulated their profound concern that, despite the significant time elapsed since the funding freeze, there has been no meaningful investigation into the alleged irregularities that led to this drastic measure, nor has anyone been held accountable for the ongoing disruption to essential employment opportunities in the state.
The urgency of their appeal highlights not only the immediate economic needs of the workers but also the broader implications for rural livelihoods and social stability in West Bengal. The collective voice of these workers is a reminder of the essential role that employment guarantee programs play in fostering economic security and dignity for millions, said a representative from the NREGA Sangharsh Morcha.
