Opposition Congress today cornered the BJP government in Gujarat over the issue of endosulfan, a banned pesticide which was allegedly a part of the free agricultural kits distributed to farmers in Navsari district.
During the question-answer session in the state assembly, Congress MLA from Navsari Piyush Desai confronted Agriculture Minister Govind Patel on the issue and asked whether endosulfan was included in the free kits given away as part of Krishi Mahotsav, a government programme focusing high agricultural growth in the state.
Patel initially responded that he had no information about it. This prompted a strong protest from Congress members reminded the minister that there was a global ban on the manufacture and use of this pesticide.
Following the din, the minister made a statement saying that during the year 2012-13 a total of 3,551 farmers received free agricutural kits in Navsari and state the government has not distributed this pesticide to any farmer.
Unsatisfied, Congress MLAs alleged the state government was intentionally giving "incorrect, untrue and misguiding information" on questions asked by them.
Speaker Vajubhai Vala, while trying to pacify the agitated members, told them that if they do not believe the minister, they can take up the issue with his office by following proper procedures.
The Leader of the Opposition Shankarsinh Vaghela countered by saying "we have observed that ministers are frequently resorting to incorrect answers...How can we keep every record of that and present to you each time this happens. We need your protection."
Because of its threats to human health and environment, a global ban on the manufacture and use of endosulfan was negotiated under the Stockholm Convention in April 2011 which was also endorsed by India.
