Udupi: Jan 22 (DHNS) : Demanding that ration cards should be given to all families, all families should be given ration commodities, and small families should be given 35 kg rice every month at Rs 2 per kg, the activists of Communist Party of India (Marxist) picketed the Deputy Commissioner’s office on Thursday. Police arrested over 300 activists and released later. 

Addressing protesters, economist Admar Sripathi Acharya said farmers have turned to commercial crops due to the reduction and cancellation of subsidy to the seeds of food grains. This has resulted in low food production and consequently high market rates.

“The government should rush to help the people who have been affected by the market surge. Steps should be taken to distribute ration to all families,” he said.

“Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa has not yet implemented his assurance on PDS distribution. If Tamil Nadu has implemented the scheme of providing 20 kg rice every month at Rs 2/kg, why it is not possible in Karnataka?” he questioned.

Speaking on the occasion, CPM District Secretary Shankar said the price of necessary commodities are skyrocketing due to the liberalisation policies of the Central and state governments.

“The BJP has forgotten its assurance of increasing the income limit of BPL card to Rs 30,000. Karnataka stands 11th in the huger index. The BJP is involved in misleading people through its agenda of spreading communal hatredness,” he alleged.

CPM Secretary Vishwanath Rai said a picketing will be held in front of the DC’s office on January 22.