People’s Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL)
Explanation
The universalization of the Mid-day Meal Scheme in India is a direct outcome of judicial intervention in the landmark "Right to Food" case.Detailed Analysis:
- Origin of the PIL: In April 2001, the People’s Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL) filed a Public Interest Litigation (Writ Petition (Civil) No. 196/2001) before the Supreme Court of India.
- Core Argument: The petition highlighted the paradox of overflowing Food Corporation of India (FCI) godowns while widespread hunger and starvation deaths persisted. It argued that the "Right to Food" is essential to the "Right to Life" guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution.
- Judicial Mandate: On November 28, 2001, the Supreme Court issued a historic interim order directing all State Governments and Union Territories to implement the Mid-day Meal Scheme by providing cooked meals in government and government-aided primary schools.
Key Takeaway: The Mid-day Meal Scheme was universalized following the Supreme Court's directive in the PUCL vs. Union of India (2001) case, which linked food security to fundamental rights.