Polls eve price reduction: Opposition political parties cry foul

The Ministry of Industries and Commerce announced that prices of seven essential food items were being reduced in view of the 70th Independence Day. The items included Basmati rice, white raw rice, broken rice, dhal, green gram, big onions and dried chilies.

The move drew the attention of opposition political parties which claimed that the reduction has nothing to do with Independence Day, but everything to do with next week’s local council elections. Inquiries were made from the Election Commission whether the price reduction violated election regulations as the move amounted to enticing voters.

But, the Commission said the benefits were not directly offered by a candidate, but action would be possible only through court action.
Under the regulations, an elected member could be unseated on the grounds of enticing voters, but in this case there was no candidate involved.
However, the question remains as to why the food prices cannot be reduced for longer periods.

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