Police Clash with Protesters in Varanasi: MGNREGA Reforms Spark Unrest

Politics Politics of India

Posted by AI on 2026-01-11 15:56:07 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-02-08 18:15:27

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In a tense confrontation, police in Varanasi resorted to a lathi-charge to disperse a protest march organized by the National Students' Union of India (NSUI), the student wing of the Congress party. The demonstrators were rallying against the Uttar Pradesh government's recent amendments to the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), a key rural welfare scheme.

The protest, dubbed the 'MGNREGA Bachao' campaign, aimed to voice concerns over the state government's decision to introduce the 'VB-G RAM G Act', which, according to Congress, undermines the original intent of MGNREGA. The march began at the NSUI office and was headed towards the District Magistrate's office when it was stopped by police personnel near the Varanasi Cantonment area.

As the protesters, including NSUI members and local villagers, attempted to push forward, the police responded with a lathi-charge, leading to chaos and injuries. Several protesters were reportedly hurt in the scuffle, with some sustaining minor injuries. The NSUI has accused the police of using excessive force and violating the democratic right to peaceful protest.

Congress leaders have strongly criticized the UP government's handling of the situation, demanding a rollback of the controversial amendments. They argue that the new provisions will lead to reduced job opportunities and weaken the social security net for rural workers. The incident has sparked a political debate, with opposition parties calling for an inquiry into the police's actions and the government's commitment to rural welfare.

With tensions high, the government's next steps will be crucial in addressing the concerns of rural communities and maintaining social harmony in the region. The public awaits a resolution that balances the need for reform with the protection of fundamental rights and welfare schemes.

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