New Food Security Bill Introduced In Lok Sabha

New Delhi: The government introduced in the Lok Sabha the food security bill 2013 to replace the relevant ordinance issued last month.

Food Minister K.V. Thomas first withdrew the food security bill that had been introduced in the house in 2011 and then introduced the new measure, based on the ordinance which had been tabled for approval in the house.

"The bill does not impinge on the rights of states. There is nothing against the federal structure. The bill aims at giving food as a matter of right," Thomas told the house.

Leader of Opposition Sushma Swaraj said border security was as important as food security and repeated her demand that Defence Minister A.K. Antony clarify his statement on the killing of five soldiers in Jammu and Kashmir.

AIADMK member A. Thambidurai opposed the bill saying it was against the right of states. He also wanted the states to be consulted before the house took up the bill.

"The Tamil Nadu government is distributing grains. It will be affected by the bill," said Thambidurai.

Former United Progressive Alliance (UPA) ally and DMK member T.R. Baalu said his party would seek amendments in the bill.

"Off-take of states should not be affected," he said.

Amid the din in the house, the speaker adjourned the Lok Sabha till Thursday.

The relevant bill could not be passed in the previous budget session of parliament and getting the new food security bill passed is a top priority for the UPA.