In Brief
This case addresses the implementation of the National Food Security Act, 2013, by State Governments. The Supreme Court held that under Article 256 of the Constitution and principles of cooperative federalism, the Government of India can direct States to comply with parliamentary legislation. The Court found that despite four years of the Act being in force, many States had failed to establish mandated bodies like District Grievance Redressal Officers, State Food Commissions, and Vigilance Committees. The Court issued detailed directions requiring States to constitutionally implement the Act in letter and spirit, emphasizing that social welfare legislation cannot be ignored by States and that meaningful dialogue between Centre and States is essential to achieve effective implementation.
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