The Rajya Sabha is discussing Food Security Bill. The Bill has already been passed by the Lok Sabha. Moving the Bill, Food Minister Prof. K V Thomas said, the Bill will provide food and nutritional security to people at affordable prices to lead a dignified life.

Opposition BJP termed it as a poll gimmick and accused the government of violating constitutional norms by issuing an ordinance when Parliament session was less than a month away.

While supporting the Food Security Bill, Leader of the Opposition Arun Jaitley said government was repackaging various existing schemes like PDS, mid-day meal and ICDS and there was nothing new in it.

Countering the opposition allegations, Narendra Budania of the Congress described the bill as a historic step in ensuring food security to the poor people. He said the legislation will give people their right to food.