SC notice to Centre on distribution of subsidized food grains

The Supreme Court today sought the response from the Centre on a plea seeking distribution of subsidised foodgrains to the poor through PDS and proper implementation of maternity benefit schemes.
The social justice bench of Justices M B Lokur and U U Lalit issued notices to Union Ministries of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution and Women and Child Development on a PIL filed by NGO People's Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL) seeking a direction to all states and Union Territories for proper implementation of the National Food Security Act and the maternity benefit scheme.
Senior Advocate Colin Gonsalves, appearing for the NGO, said amongst various reliefs sought in the PIL, he was confining to those related to the food security and maternity benefit only.

The NGO will move the High Court for other reliefs including lack in implementation of mid-day meal scheme and infrastructure in schools and anganwadi buildings, he said.
The petition claimed that even after lapse of statutory time-limit, process of identification of beneficiaries is not complete and the National Food Security Act is not being fully implemented.
"As many 45.9 crore beneficiaries entitled to subsidised grains at Rs 3, Rs 2 and Rs 1 for rice, wheat and coarse grains respectively, from July 4, 2014 under provisions of the Act, are not receiving grains at the specified prices due to delay in implementation of the Act," it said.

It said that "meal provision under the Integrated Child Developments Services (ICDS) scheme has very low coverage and is far from universal as has been laid down in the Act and directed by the apex court."
It also sought a direction to all the states and UTs to ensure that no eligible applicant is denied a ration card.
The petition also sought a direction to all the states and UTs to pay maternity benefit of not less than Rs 6,000 to all pregnant women and lactating mothers.