Supreme Court: Focus on Jobs, Not Free Ration

Aakhir Tak – In Shorts

1. The Supreme Court urged the central government to focus on job creation rather than solely distributing free rations.
2. The court believes the free ration system might incentivize states to issue more ration cards.
3. The Solicitor General stated that the government provides free rations to 80 crore people.
4. The petitioner argued that 2-3 crore people remain excluded from the scheme.
5. The case has been adjourned to January 2025.

Aakhir Tak – In Depth

The Supreme Court of India has directed the central government to prioritize job creation over continuing its extensive free ration program under the National Food Security Act (NFSA). The court expressed concern that the current system, where the central government bears the financial burden of providing grains, might encourage states to issue more ration cards to appease the population. The court observed that if states were solely responsible for providing free rations, many would cite financial constraints. Therefore, creating more employment opportunities should be the primary focus.

Government’s Position

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the court that the government currently provides free wheat and rice, along with other essential commodities, to 80 crore (800 million) poor people under the NFSA. However, petitioner Advocate Prashant Bhushan argued that despite this, 2 to 3 crore people remain excluded.

Migrant Workers’ Concerns

The case initially highlighted the plight of migrant workers. The court had previously ordered that eligible individuals identified by states/Union Territories must receive ration cards before November 19, 2024.

Heated Exchange

A heated exchange occurred between the Solicitor General and Advocate Bhushan. Mehta criticized Bhushan for attempting to dictate government policy. Bhushan responded by suggesting this criticism stemmed from his earlier release of damaging emails concerning the Solicitor General.

The matter has been adjourned until January 8, 2025.

Aakhir Tak – Key Takeaways to Remember

The Supreme Court’s ruling emphasizes the need for job creation over the continued reliance on free rations under the NFSA. The court worries that the current free ration system may lead to excessive ration card issuance. The significant number of people still excluded from the scheme highlights its shortcomings.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

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