Source: The Sangai Express / Addie Chiphang
Ukhrul, May 27:
With the arrival of monsoon which is synonymous with the period of paddy plantation and rampant hike of prices in essential commodities like rice, the farmers in Ukhrul district have been hit hard.
The price of common rice like super fine, ration that was paid Rs 580 a bag (50 kgs) recently has jumped to Rs 740 with the same quantity, adding much woes to the common people who depend on this essential commodity which otherwise should be made available at Government subsidised rate.
Taking serious note of this unprecedented hike in the prices of essential commodities, the Consumer Club Ukhrul (CCU) has urged the concerned business community to take up the matter under Monopolies and Restrictive Trade Practice (MRTP) of the Consumers Rights if the price hike continues.
In an independent inquiry undertaken by this correspondent, it is being revealed that essential commodities like rice which is being disbursed under the public distribution system do not reach the targeted people but they are often being misappropriated by some sub-agents, underground cadres and other individuals who have political backing.
Recently some hundreds quintals of rice transported from the godown in Ukhrul were found to be sold at a meagre rate of Rs 500 per bag (50 kgs) illegally by some alleged underground cadres.
Interestingly in such a proxy trade, individuals involved would keep the commodities at their disposal for few days and only later make it available in the market at the rate of Rs 740 per bag that contains 50 kgs.
Despite such game being played by handful individuals at the cost of the public it turns out to be a dismay to note that the district administrator, the concerned MLAs and other Ministers have been remaining mute on this issue for a long time.
With this grim situation in public welfare many people have expressed with strong resentment that the administration of Ukhrul has collapse and that the principle of "Survival of the fittest" has ruled the land.