Thousands of women gathered in south Mumbai on Tuesday to protest for food security and improvements to the ration system.
The protest was organized by the All India Democratic Women's Association (AIDWA). AIDWA leaders, including PK Sreemathy, Mariam Dhawale, Prachi Hativelar, Brinda Karat, and Subhashini Ali, addressed the gathering.
The women demanded that the government:
- Expand the coverage of the Public Distribution System (PDS) to all eligible families.
- Increase the quantity of foodgrains and other essential commodities distributed through the PDS.
- Reduce the prices of foodgrains and other essential commodities.
- Ensure that all ration shops are well-stocked and accessible to all eligible families.
A delegation of women later met with Maharashtra Food and Civil Supply Minister Chhagan Bhujbal to put forth their demands. The minister assured the women that he would look into their demands and take appropriate action.
The protest comes at a time when there is growing concern about food insecurity in India. The prices of foodgrains and other essential commodities have been rising steadily in recent months. This has made it difficult for many people to afford to buy food.
The government needs to take urgent steps to address the problem of food insecurity. The women's protest is a reminder that the government cannot ignore the needs of the people.
