Thaindian News

Lucknow, Jan 20 (IANS) Pointedly blaming union Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar for the unprecedented rise in prices of food and other essential commodities, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati Wednesday demanded his removal.
“In case Pawar is not divested of the agriculture portfolio latest by Jan 27, I will not participate in the meeting that the prime minister has convened on that date to discuss the price rise issue with the state chief ministers,” Mayawati said at a press conference here.

While blaming the central government’s policies for the spiralling prices, she said: “The proposed meeting simply reflects the central government’s double-speak on the issue.”

Lambasting Pawar for suggesting milk prices could rise, she observed: “On the one hand, the prime minister has invited the chief ministers to thrash out ways and means to curb prices and on the other, his own cabinet colleague is hinting at a rise in milk prices.”

In the same vein, she added: “Even in the past, it was irresponsible statements issued by Pawar that led to a rise in the prices of essential commodities. He, therefore, has no business to be continuing as the country’s agriculture minister. It is high time the prime minister took action against him.”

Claiming that her government was particular about cracking the whip on hoarders, Mayawati sought to point out how she had directed officers right down to the level of sub-divisional magistrates to ensure deterrent action against hoarders.