Congress condemns UP police for lathi charge on peaceful protest against MGNREGA replacement in Varanasi.

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh condemned Uttar Pradesh police for using lathi charges against a peaceful "Save MGNREGA" protest in Varanasi, calling the government a "trouble-engine" for suppressing democratic dissent. The protest, led by NSUI president Varun Chaudhary, was part of a nationwide campaign against the new VB-G RAM G Act, which replaced the MGNREGA and received presidential assent in January 2025. Congress workers held symbolic fasts near Gandhi and Ambedkar statues, alleging police disruption and efforts to block opposition leaders. Security was heightened near Modi’s office ahead of the march.