The Hindu : Front Page : CWC expresses concern over rising prices

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Friday, Jun 30, 2006

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CWC expresses concern over rising prices

Special Correspondent

NEW DELHI: The Congress Working Committee (CWC) on Thursday expressed deep concern over the plight of the common man due to hike in prices of essential commodities, and asked the Government to take effective steps to control the situation.

At a meeting, convened by party president Sonia Gandhi, the CWC appreciated the measures taken to reduce the impact of the hike on masses but asked the Government to "work out an effective mechanism to manage the demand and supply of essential commodities and check prices in order to reduce their impact on the vulnerable sections of society."

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh participated in the meeting.

"Not unusual"

Defence Minister Pranab Mukherjee told the media that it was not unusual for the CWC to take such a view. A similar concern was expressed by it in 1974 when prices rose by 24 per cent.

In 1980 and 1991, the Congress Governments inherited economies, which had inflation raging at 18 per cent and 16 per cent, he pointed out.

Finance Minister P. Chidamabaram explained the Government's stand on the issue, he said.

While a member asked the Finance Minister why prices of petrol and diesel were increased so sharply, another wanted the Prime Minister to call for a meeting of Chief Ministers and ask them to act against hoarders and those creating artificial scarcity.

The disinvestment of NALCO also figured, with a member opposing it. Sources said Mr. Chidambaram circulated a note on the issue but it was later withdrawn.

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