Mon Dec 09 17:00:10 UTC 2024: ## Supreme Court Questions Long-Term Sustainability of Free Ration for Migrant Workers

**New Delhi:** The Supreme Court on Monday questioned the indefinite provision of free or subsidized rations to 81 crore people under the National Food Security Act (NFSA), expressing concern over its long-term viability. The court’s questioning came during a hearing on a suo moto case concerning the plight of migrant workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The bench, comprising Justices Surya Kant and Manmohan, was surprised by the Centre’s revelation that such a vast number of people benefit from the scheme, noting that only taxpayers are excluded. The judges emphasized the need to shift focus towards creating job opportunities and capacity building for these workers rather than relying solely on freebies.

Advocate Prashant Bhushan, representing an NGO, urged the court to direct the provision of free rations to all migrant workers registered on the e-Shram portal. However, Justice Surya Kant raised concerns that providing free rations might disincentivize states from actively engaging in employment initiatives, potentially leading to a dependency on central government support.

The Solicitor General, Tushar Mehta, clarified that the government’s obligations are bound by the NFSA of 2013 and that previous court orders related to free rations were specifically targeted at addressing the immediate distress caused by the pandemic. He also criticized the NGO’s work, stating that they did not provide on-the-ground relief during the pandemic. A heated exchange ensued between Mehta and Bhushan, leading to Justice Kant intervening to de-escalate the situation.

The court adjourned the hearing to January 8th, acknowledging the complexities of the issue and the need for a detailed examination of the data and the strategies for supporting migrant workers. The court’s previous judgments, issued in 2021, directed the creation of a national database for unorganized workers and the implementation of welfare measures, including the provision of ration cards and free dry rations during the pandemic. The court’s current questioning reflects a shift in focus towards long-term solutions that foster self-reliance and sustainable development for migrant workers rather than prolonged reliance on freebies.

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