Judgment :

1. In this petition that was filed little more than two years back various issues have been raised, many of which may have a direct and important relevance to the very existence of poor people; their right to life and the right to food of those who can ill-afford to provide for their families two meals a day. Their misfortune becomes further grave during the times of famine and drought.

2. The petitioner has sought directions for enforcement of the Famine Code. The petitioner seeks immediate release of surplus foodgrains lying in the stocks of the Union of India for the drought-affected areas. Directions are also sought requiring the Government to frame fresh schemes of public distribution for scientific and reasonable distribution of foodgrains. In order that any meaningful and immediate relief is given by the Central Government and the State Governments without any delay, various applications have been filed by the petitioner.

3. Considering the importance of the matter particularly in relation to those who are below poverty line (BPL) an order was made by this Court on 3-3-2003 requiring the respondents to file replies to the applications and place on record the requi