Karnataka will approach the Supreme Court to seek permission to implement an action plan under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) for 2026, after the Centre failed to notify the replacement Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act, 2025. Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister H.K. Patil announced the decision following a Cabinet meeting, citing the absence of rules, regulations, and financial allocations for the new scheme.

Patil stated that despite the Centre's directive to continue pending MGNREGA works, no funds have been released, nor has the new law been formally notified. He argued that the state's constitutional right to ensure livelihood security for rural workers is being undermined, and that the Union government did not consult states during the formulation of the new Act.

The Karnataka government also highlighted its prior efforts, including a legislative resolution and representations by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Rural Development Minister Priyank Kharge to the Centre. The state maintains that since ongoing MGNREGA projects are still being carried out, the original Act remains operationally valid.

The court petition will challenge the non-implementation of a functional replacement scheme and seek clarity on the Centre's obligations. The Supreme Court is expected to hear the matter in the coming weeks.