Congress MP Deepender Singh Hooda has expressed strong discontent with the Haryana state government regarding the purported dismantling of the MGNREGA schemes and the cancellation of 14 lakh Below Poverty Line (BPL) cards. He emphasized that the opposition holds a constitutional right to voice their concerns and protest against such actions. According to Hooda, addressing these issues not only falls within the opposition’s rights but also reflects the democratic rights of the populace. He stated, “When disagreements occur, such as the dismantling of MGNREGA schemes, we will protest these issues. Protests are our right in a democracy, as well as the people’s right and our constitutional right.”

Congress’s Protest Initiative in Chandigarh

Earlier, members of the Haryana Pradesh Congress Committee organized a “Vidhan Sabha Gherao” under the banner of MNREGA Bachao Sangharsh. The demonstration aims to highlight the rising unemployment, deteriorating law and order situation, and alleged detrimental policies attributed to the state government. Organizers have invited party activists, supporters, and the general public to join in raising their voices on issues, including recent modifications to the rural employment guarantee scheme and broader governance challenges.

Concerns Over Denied Protest Permissions

Deepender Singh Hooda has accused the Haryana authorities of unprecedentedly denying protest permissions. He reiterated that the Congress party would proceed with the planned demonstration, irrespective of imposed restrictions. Hooda remarked, “I have never seen denial of protest permission issued in this manner. This is the first time I have encountered notices stating that protests will not be allowed. Police have visited many of our leaders’ homes, advising them against participation. Some have been placed under house arrest. This is unacceptable. We will protest, and we will protest vigorously for the rights of the people.”

Response from Congress MLA and Police Regulations

Congress MLA Vinesh Phogat also spoke at the protest, asserting that the ruling BJP is attempting to intimidate them. He stated, “They do not understand the history of the Congress party. We draw inspiration from the principles of Mahatma Gandhi. We are not afraid. We are committed leaders who believe in struggle and will fight for our cause on the streets.” Meanwhile, the Chandigarh Police issued a public notice prohibiting protests and gatherings outside designated areas during the Congress demonstration regarding MGNREGA.

Designated Venue for Protests in Chandigarh

According to a notice released by the Station House Officer at Police Station North in Chandigarh, a specific venue, the Rally Ground in Sector-25, has been officially approved for public demonstrations. The order, issued under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, by the District Magistrate, bans gatherings of five or more individuals for protests, rallies, strikes, or speeches across the Union Territory, except at the designated venue. The notice was publicly displayed outside the Haryana Congress office in Chandigarh.

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