Launched with much fanfare in 2005, MGNREGA aimed to combat rural distress by assuring employment. Yet, under UPA, it allegedly became a playground for fraudsters. Singh pointed to scandals in states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, where muster rolls were manipulated, and payments were diverted to fictitious entities. ‘Billions vanished into thin air while villagers waited for their wages,’ he said, referencing a 2013 CAG audit that flagged over Rs 50,000 crore in potential misuse.

Drawing sharp comparisons, Singh praised the NDA’s overhaul: geo-tagging of assets, real-time wage payments via DBT, and stringent audits. ‘Corruption thrived in opacity; we’ve brought sunlight with technology,’ he noted. The remarks have sparked a fresh war of words, with Congress defending the scheme’s conceptual success while acknowledging implementation glitches.

Economists weigh in too, noting how UPA-era leakages undermined the scheme’s poverty alleviation goals. Recent government figures indicate over 90% fund utilization with minimal complaints now. Singh’s narrative positions BJP as the reformer, challenging opponents to a debate on welfare delivery.

With elections looming, this controversy highlights the polarized views on one of India’s largest social security nets. Arun Singh’s words may fuel BJP’s campaign, reminding voters of past excesses while showcasing current achievements.

Key highlights of the CAG report:

* Revenue Surplus: Uttarakhand recorded a surplus of ₹5,310 crore in fiscal year 2022-23.
* Overall Progress: This achievement indicates a remarkable improvement in the state’s financial position.
* Evidence of Economic Strength: Once associated with the ‘Bimaru’ category, Uttarakhand has now demonstrated sound financial management.
* Positive Economic Transformation: Despite previous challenges in financial discipline, the state achieved this feat through prudent management and transparent policies.

Upendra Kushwaha, the head of the Rashtriya Lok Morcha, criticized the Mahagathbandhan, stating that they are raising concerns about vote theft in the assembly, but they lack the votes themselves. He also commented on the Mahagathbandhan’s planned rallies and marches regarding the voter list, saying they have the right to do so, but it won’t make a difference as the public has decided to bring the NDA back to power.

Giriraj Singh questioned Rahul Gandhi’s victory, suggesting it was due to ‘invisible voters’. He stated that questioning the Election Commission’s integrity is wrong. He also commented on the proposed padyatra (foot march) by Rahul Gandhi and Tejashwi Yadav, implying that their coordination might not last long.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) staged a protest in front of the local Enforcement Directorate (ED) office in Bihar, led by the state president, Rakesh Yadav, against the Bihar government over alleged financial discrepancies highlighted in the CAG report. The AAP alleges the NDA government is responsible for a ₹71,000 crore scam. The CAG report indicates that the Bihar government could not account for approximately ₹71,000 crore. The report stated that without the proper certificates, it can be assumed that the funds have been misappropriated.

In a separate event, Gupta said, “If we want to make Delhi successful, to develop Delhi, then we all have to take responsibility on our shoulders that my city, my Delhi, should not become dirty or polluted because of me. If you make this small resolution today that you will not throw garbage on the road, then I promise you that you will get a Delhi where you want to live, you will not need to leave Delhi, you will not need to go to Gurgaon, NCR.”

She also accused AAP of misusing Delhi’s tax revenue for election campaigns in other states. Gupta claimed that the AAP leaders are rattled by the release of Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) reports, which expose their misdeeds.