SC asks Centre to increase number of Anganwadis by 2008

New Delhi, Dec 13 (UNI) The Supreme Court today directed the Union Government to increase the number of Anganwadis from six lakhs to 14 lakhs in a phased manner latest by 2008.

Expressing its annoyance with the casual attitude of some state governments in implementing the earlier directions, the Supreme Court also issued showcause notices to the Chief Secretaries of 15 states respectively, to explain why contempt of court proceedings has not be initiated against those states for deliberate disobedience of the orders.

The states include Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, MP, Jharkhand, Asom and West Bengal.

The PIL was filed by People's Union for Civil Liberty (PUCL).

A bench comprising Justice Arijit Pasayat and Justice S H Kapadia, further, directed the centre as well as the states to file a compliance report within three months from today in this regard.

The Court also directed the centre to provide adequate finance to set up Anganwadis under the Integrated Child Development Scheme (ICDS).

The ICDS scheme is aimed at looking after the Anganwadi workers and their childrens by providing mid-day meal, medical facilities, education.

The scheme, however, requires investment of several crores of rupees.

UNI AKS/SC SSC RS1140