The Supreme Court dismissed the plea seeking adoption of “One Nation One Ration” scheme amidst lockdown to contain spread of COVID19 even as it reprimanded the lawyer that not every issue should be brought before courts.
A three-judge Bench of Js. N.V Ramana, Js. Sanjay Kishan Kaul and Js. B.R Gavai dismissed the plea filed by Advocate Reepak Kansal saying that not every issue can be brought to Courts, if the Petitioner is a lawyer.
The plea sought for adoption of “One Nation, One Ration Card” scheme in light of Coronavirus pandemic, lockdown and exodus of migrant labourers as a consequence of it. These poor migrants are now in temporary shelters in their different States.
The petition in Supreme Court asked for directions to Government to ensure that rights of migrant labourers to get entitlement of subsidised foodgrains and benefit schemes are protected even if they are stuck in a state other than their home state.
Case for immediate implementation of scheme of ‘One Nation, One Ration Card’ which was to be launched by Prime Minister in 2020 was made out by the plea. It stated, “ Due to lack of scheme of One Nation, One Ration Card and another policy/circular/notification by Central Governmentto protect the rights of labourers/ employees/small businessman/daily wagers/tourists etc. in regard to protect the lives and health of above-said section. The said section of the society has not been getting benefits of schemes of Central Government and State Governments including subsidised food grains, shelter and medical facilities (except Corona treatment)
The Petitioner had argued in this regard that rights of such migrant labourers and poor should be protected under Article 21 of the Constitution.
–India Legal Bureau