SC Questions Food Security Efforts
The Supreme Court questioned how high development rates and per capita incomes can coexist with 70% of a state's population living below the poverty line.
The court expressed concern that subsidized food distribution might be used for political gain rather than genuine poverty alleviation.
The court acknowledged the issue of growing inequality, where a small number of people hold vast wealth while many live in extreme poverty.
The court also questioned whether ration card distribution is influenced by political considerations.
The court noted that corruption and mismanagement in the Public Distribution System shouldn't prevent its implementation, as the poor have a fundamental right to food.
Centre’s explanation
The government stated that it is obligated to provide food grains under the National Food Security Act, covering 81.35% of the population.
The government also provides additional coverage for 11 crore people under the Anganwadi scheme, and a further 22 crore people through other channels.
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