MPs voice concern over rise in price of essential items

Concern was voiced over "abnormal" rise in prices of essential commodities by opposition members in the Lok Sabha today.     

Raising the issue during Zero hour, CPI-M leader Basudeb Acharia said prices of all the essential commodities have seen a rise in recent days with some pulses like 'arhar' costing Rs 80 a kilo.     

Accusing the government of failing to check the price line, he wanted it to convene a meeting of state Food Ministers urgently, streamline the Public Distribution System and amend the Essential Commodities Act to bring more items under PDS.       

Wondering over the price rise at a time when inflation was negative, Acharia wanted the government to spell out its plan of action to check prices.     

He said unless strong steps are taken, hoarding would grow and artificial scarcity will be created.     

Sharad Yadav (JD-U) suggested that price of diesel should be reduced.     

The high cost of diesel, which is required the most for farm activities, was one of the reasons for rising prices along with truant monsoon, he said.