In the case of Vivek Pandit vs State of Maharashtra & Ors. a PIL was filed before the two-judge bench of Bombay High Court. The application filed to seek directions to ensure that the tribal community is getting proper food supply.
The Chief Justice Dipankar Dutta and AA Sayed disposed of the petition. The bench satisfied that the government is taking all the steps to ensure adequate food supply.
Contentions of the Petitioner
The petitioner filed a PIL on 30th April. This is to issue a direction to the respondent authorities to look into the new applications. These tribal families filed an application to get benefit under the Antyodaya Scheme. The counsel also contended that the authorities delay in issuing ration cards. The authorities usually ask for various documentary pieces of evidence. But the families are not able to provide them. He solicited the court to give directions to the authorities. This is to ensure that there is an adequate supply of food items to the tribal families.
Contentions of the Respondent
The respondent authorities submitted an affidavit reply. They stated the government took several measures to ensure that food is available to the tribal community. The circular issued on April, 27 states that the authorities provide benefits of PDS to all the vulnerable households. It includes migrant workers also.
Petitioner’s Prayer
The petitioner, in this case, wanted that the court should issue the writ as the court may deem fit. This was to ensure that the government provides basic support in the form of food supply to certain communities. These communities were Tribals, Adivasis in 16 project areas and for commercial sex workers in Maharashtra.
Held
Mr Samant, who is a government pleader, made a statement in the court. He assured that the benefits of various welfare schemes are reaching to society.
The Court also stated that-
“We have no doubt in our mind that the testing times in spite of, the respondents would leave no stone unturned to reach out to the members of the tribal community… After all, one must not forget that Article 21 is the most fundamental of all Fundamental Rights..”
Thus the Court disposed of PIL.
Libertatem.in is now on Telegram. Follow us for regular legal updates and judgements from the court. Follow us on Google News, Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook & Twitter. You can also subscribe for our Weekly Email Updates. You can also contribute stories like this and help us spread awareness for a better society. Submit Your Post Now.
