DHAKA: Amid allegations of price-fixing tricks of the trade, district administrators now got clear direction from government authorities to take legal action against any mill owners who indulge in any wrongdoing during paddy and rice procurement.

The instruction came from Food and Disaster Management Minister Dr. Abdur Razzak during the first session of the second day of the Deputy Commissioners’ conference Monday.

In view of market price rises and government’s intervention measures, the session was devoted to different actions of Food and Disaster Management and Social Welfare Ministry.

The session over, the minister told reporters, “During the paddy-rice procurement season, every year we receive allegations of negligence against mill owners. So Deputy Commissioners have been directed to remain watchful on this issue and take proper action, if necessary.”

The journalists pointed out to the minister the lack of coordination in implementing Food for Work, Test Relief and similar projects at local levels.

In this regard, Dr. Razzak informed that committees would be formed to ensure dynamism, transparency and accountability for a smooth run of those programmes designed for helping out the poorer sections of people.
 
The minister told banglanews24.com.bd that the country has adequate food stock at present.

“Sufficient food-grains were imported. We find no reason for any sort of food crisis at this moment,” he said.

On the other hand, the district administration bosses asked for suggestions and supports from the minister and high officials of the ministry to deal with the prevailing food-depot crisis across the country.

BDST 1531 HRS JULY 26, 2010