Rijiju Slams Door on VB-G RAM G Law Debate: ‘Can’t Reverse Gear’ After All-Party Meet

‘Can’t reverse gear’: Rijiju rules out discussion of VB–G RAM G law after all-party meet

In a move that has sent ripples through the political corridors of New Delhi, Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju has delivered a clear and unambiguous message to the opposition: the government will not entertain any discussion on the VB-G RAM G law in the upcoming Parliament session. His statement, made right after a crucial all-party meeting on January 27, 2026, was as direct as it was final: “We can’t reverse gear.” [[1]]

This declaration comes at a pivotal moment, just a day before the commencement of the highly anticipated Budget Session of Parliament on January 28, 2026 [[2]]. The opposition had been pushing for a debate on the proposed legislation, but the government’s position appears to be set in stone.

Table of Contents

What is the VB-G RAM G Law?

The Viksit Bharat – Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin), or VB-G RAM G Bill, 2025, is a flagship rural development initiative from the current administration. According to official documents, the bill aims to establish a robust framework for guaranteeing employment and livelihood security in rural areas across India [[3]].

While details of the final bill are still under wraps, it is widely seen as a potential successor or a significant overhaul of the existing Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). The government has positioned it as a cornerstone of its vision for a developed India (Viksit Bharat) by 2047.

The All-Party Meet and Rijiju’s Firm Stance

The all-party meeting, a customary practice before major parliamentary sessions, was held to build consensus on the agenda for the Budget Session. It was during this forum that the opposition reportedly raised the issue of discussing the VB-G RAM G law.

Rijiju’s response was swift and decisive. He stated that the government’s policy direction on this matter is final and non-negotiable. The phrase “can’t reverse gear” has now become the official line, signaling that the administration is moving forward with its plan without any intention of revisiting its core structure or opening it up for a potentially contentious debate in the House [[1]].

This stance effectively shuts down a key avenue the opposition had hoped to use to scrutinize the proposed legislation, which has been a subject of speculation and concern among various stakeholders, including farmers’ groups and rural economists.

Why the Government Says It ‘Can’t Reverse Gear’

The government’s unwavering position likely stems from several strategic considerations:

  1. Policy Finality: The administration appears to have finalized its approach to rural employment and is keen to present it as a done deal, avoiding any public perception of indecision or weakness.
  2. Budget Session Focus: With the Finance Minister set to present the Union Budget for 2026-27, the government wants to keep the parliamentary focus squarely on its economic roadmap and fiscal announcements, not on a potentially divisive social welfare bill [[2]].
  3. Political Messaging: By refusing to engage in a debate, the government is sending a strong message of authority and control over its legislative agenda, a narrative it often leverages for its political base.

This approach, however, raises questions about the democratic process of consultation and deliberation, which are fundamental to a healthy parliamentary system. For more on how parliamentary procedures work, you can refer to this overview from the [INTERNAL_LINK:parliamentary-procedures-in-india].

Political Fallout and Opposition’s Next Move

Rijiju’s announcement is sure to fuel further political tension. The opposition, feeling sidelined, may resort to other tactics to voice their concerns. This could include raising the issue during Zero Hour, staging protests, or using media platforms to criticize the government’s lack of transparency.

The ruling on the VB-G RAM G law also sets a precedent for how the government might handle other contentious bills in the future. If the pattern of ruling out discussion before a debate even begins becomes standard practice, it could significantly alter the dynamics of legislative business in India.

Observers are now watching closely to see if the opposition can unite on a common strategy to challenge this top-down approach. Their ability to do so will be a critical test of their collective political strength in the current parliamentary landscape.

Conclusion

Kiren Rijiju’s firm declaration that there will be no discussion on the VB-G RAM G law marks a significant moment in the lead-up to the Budget Session 2026. By stating the government “can’t reverse gear,” he has drawn a clear line in the sand, prioritizing a swift legislative push over open parliamentary debate. While this strategy may expedite the government’s agenda, it also risks deepening the political divide and could face scrutiny from those who value a more consultative and transparent law-making process. The coming days in Parliament will be a crucial test of how this high-stakes standoff plays out.

Sources

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