Delhi HC issues notice to Delhi govt on plea to continue food security scheme for those without ration cards

The Delhi Rozi Roti Adhikar Abhiyaan (DRRAA) has moved an application before the Delhi High Court highlighting the discontinuation of all schemes of food security by the Delhi government for those without ration cards.

The Delhi government has discontinued the scheme of distribution of food grain to non-ration card holders through which around 54 lakh people were given rations using the e-coupons system. The government has not extended the scheme for Phase 3 distribution and therefore people without ration cards are not being provided any foodgrains by the government despite the fact that economic distress continues making it difficult for the poor in Delhi to afford food.

On June 9, 2020 the government issued an order to close all hunger relief centres which were providing hot cooked meals free of cost. Lakhs of people, especially those in the informal sector, daily wagers, migrant labourers and marginalized have been left with no food security net at a time when they are struggling to find employment during the pandemic.

The matter was heard today by a bench comprising of Justice Hima Kohli and Justice Prasad. The Delhi HC has issued notice on the application and the matter is now listed for August 17, 2020.