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Sat, Dec 27, 2025

Kharge Flags MGNREGA Concerns, Sets 2026 Polls Agenda at CWC Meet in Delhi

Written by:Gaurav Sharma
Published:
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge chaired a key CWC meeting in New Delhi, criticising the Centre's changes to MGNREGA and its handling of democratic rights. The party also reviewed its organisational strength and laid out a roadmap for the crucial 2026 Assembly elections.
Kharge Flags MGNREGA Concerns, Sets 2026 Polls Agenda at CWC Meet in Delhi

The Congress Working Committee (CWC) convened in New Delhi on Saturday for an extended session where party president Mallikarjun Kharge outlined a strategic roadmap focusing on upcoming state elections and key national issues. The meeting, attended by senior party leaders, addressed the current political climate, organisational priorities, and electoral preparedness for the 2026 Assembly polls.

Kharge led the charge, expressing serious concerns over the central government’s policies, particularly the legislative changes affecting the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), and what he described as growing pressure on democratic institutions.

Concerns Over MGNREGA

A significant portion of the discussion was dedicated to MGNREGA. Kharge criticised the Centre’s decision to introduce a new framework for the rural employment scheme without wider consultation. He highlighted the program’s vital role in providing livelihood security in rural India and curbing distress migration.

The Congress president argued that the changes could negatively impact employment security for economically vulnerable groups, including landless labourers, women, and marginalised communities who depend on the scheme.

Defending Democratic Norms

The CWC also deliberated on the state of democratic institutions and constitutional safeguards. Kharge asserted that there was increasing pressure on these norms and emphasised the importance of the Directive Principles of State Policy, which he said formed the basis for many welfare schemes during the UPA era, such as the right to work, food, education, and health.

He underscored the necessity of political opposition and civic participation to maintain a democratic balance, calling for sustained public engagement on issues impacting citizens’ fundamental rights.

Organisational Overhaul for 2026 Polls

With an eye on the 2026 Assembly elections in Assam, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Puducherry, organisational restructuring was a key agenda item. Kharge informed the committee that leadership changes at the district level have been completed in nearly 500 districts, with the remaining appointments to be finalised soon.

He stressed the urgent need to strengthen the party’s structure at the block, mandal, and booth levels, stating that robust organisational preparedness is crucial for electoral success.

Political Climate and Electoral Rolls

The committee also reviewed recent political developments, including the use of central investigative agencies in political matters. Concerns were raised about the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, with Kharge urging party workers to ensure that voters from economically and socially weaker sections are not unfairly excluded or shifted during the process.

In his concluding remarks, Kharge called for coordinated political outreach and the development of structured action plans on national issues. He stated that the Congress would continue its engagement both within and outside legislative bodies while strengthening its organisational base for future electoral contests.