Though it is the responsibility of government to take care of migrant workers, the contribution and role played by Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) “deserves all appreciation” for coming forward to help them by providing food, water and transport during the “difficult time” of COVID-19 pandemic, the Supreme Court said on Tuesday. It said that lapses and short-comings in implementing the schemes and policies have been highlighted before it by various intervenors in the matter. “We impress on States and Union Territories to streamline the vigilance and supervision of actions of their officers and staff and take appropriate action where required,” the Bench said. The Supreme Court had on May 28 directed that no fare be charged from any migrant workers for their travel either by train or bus. It had directed that migrant workers should be provided “food free of cost” by the States and UTs while waiting for their turn to board train or bus after being stranded following the lockdown.

Source: The Hindu June 09, 2020 11:18 UTC