The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) has become a point of contention between the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Tamil Nadu. The two parties are at odds over the allocation of funds for the scheme, with the DMK accusing the BJP-led central government of not releasing adequate funds for MGNREGS in the state. The DMK alleges that the BJP is deliberately withholding funds to undermine the welfare scheme, which guarantees 100 days of wage employment to rural households. On the other hand, the BJP has refuted these claims, stating that funds are being released as per the norms and that there is no discrimination against any state. The MGNREGS has been a crucial lifeline for many rural households, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, providing them with much-needed income support. The political tussle over funds for MGNREGS highlights the ongoing power struggle between the DMK and the BJP in Tamil Nadu. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how this issue will impact the implementation of the scheme in the state.