Chandigarh, Jan. 1 -- Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema on Thursday accused the BJP-led Centre of undermining the country's federal structure over the issue of pending MNREGA dues.

Speaking to ANI, Cheema said a Central Committee report has clearly stated that Rs.23,000 crore is pending against the central government towards MNREGA wages and material costs.

"The BJP is trying to break the country's federal structure. The Central Committee report clearly says that Rs 23,000 crore is pending against the central government for wages and materials," he said.

The Punjab Finance Minister claimed that the Centre's approach was weakening federal principles and causing financial stress to states, which are struggling to clear payments...