The ambitious yet controversial National Food Security Bill was taken up for consideration in the Lok Sabha on Monday amid pandemonium. Almost 67 per cent of the population will benefit from it, which will entitle them to procure 5 kg foodgrain at a fixed price of `1-3 per kg through ration shops.
Monday’s move is seen in political circles as laying the ground for an ordinance should the bill fail to pass.
Leader of the Opposition Sushma Swaraj looked puzzled when Girija Vyas, in the Chair, let the bill be taken up and allowed a brief debate. Left and BJP members criticised the government’s move while the House was paralysed. Opposition MPs rushed into the Well and raised slogans.
BJP members shouted: “Loktantra ki hatyari sarkar, nahin chalegi.” They got so disturbed that they thumped the presiding officer’s side table.
Akali MPs shouted slogans demanding a Supreme Court-monitored SIT investigation into the 1984 riots.
Minister of state for food K.V. Thomas highlighted key provisions, after which members spoke inconclusively on the bill.
UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi was present, and was seen encouraging MPs to speak on the National Food Security Bill that is considered her brainchild.