IMPHAL, July 7: In order to check the inflation of superfine rice price, the minister in charge of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution announced on June 6 last that mobile sale will be conducted at ten different locations.
Minister N Okendro had said that in order to stop black marketers and to check the price rise, the mobile sale will be conducted at transit areas in the Imphal urban areas so that people from far flung places may also avail the benefit. The rice is presently sold at 9 Rs per kg, and 15 kg is allotted to each buyer.
The mobile sale has been going on since then at specified positions under instruction by the CAF and PD. Today, IFP reporter witnessed that a truck was found almost empty at about noon in a secluded spot. In questioning one of the crew members, it was learnt that the consignment was supposed to be positioned at Sagolband Meino Thong, not at Uripok Khoisnam Leikai, Lairembi Lampak.
Further, one of the members of the truck was said to be someone from the locality. It was evident that the rice has been distributed to an area which was favorable for the truck crew.
Meeting minister Okendro in his office today, he voiced that such misdeeds needs to be checked and assured punitive measures for the involved personnel regardingly. The minister also cross checked IFP report and found that the truck was supposed to be posted at Meino Thong and not at the said place.
Further, he stated on feeling personally that at least some redressal has been made in the regard and the public have had benefits. Okendro said that the distribution will further be allocated to rural areas.