The UPA’s much-talked-about Food Security Bill, aimed at giving subsidised food to three-fourths of the nation’s population, was introduced in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday.
Introducing it, minister of state for food K.V. Thomas rejected fears that it would impinge upon states’ rights.
A fresh bill was introduced as the government withdrew an earlier version along with the ordinance promulgated on July 5.
Moving the National Food Security Bill 2013, that aims to give 800 million people a right to get 5 kg foodgrain every month at `1-3 per kg, Mr Thomas said there was nothing aimed against states. “It does not impinge upon states’ rights. It protects the Constitution,” he said in Tamil to allay fears among Tamil Nadu parties.