Somaiya demands probe into 'wheat import scam'

Rajkot, Nov 16 (UNI) Bharatiya Janata Party leader Kirit Somaiya has demanded a probe into the alleged irregularities in the recent import of wheat by the Central Government.

Talking to mediapersons here today, the former BJP MP said despite record production of wheat of 749 lakh tonnes this year, wheat was imported.

Levelling allegations against Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar and Commerce Minister Kamal Nath, Mr Somaiya said an import deal was finalised in May this year to purchase wheat at Rs 10.67 per kg, but because of some unknown reasons, the deal was not executed. Later, orders were put with the same company at an increased price of Rs 16 per kg, he alleged.

Mr Somaiya questioned the government's decision to purchase five lakh tonnes of wheat from the scam-tainted Australia Wheat Board (AWB). The said company is accused of paying kickbacks to unscrupulous agents, Mr Somaiya said.

Meanwhile, Mr Somaiya informed that nearly 1000 BJP members from Mumbai and surrounding areas would campaign for Mr Narendra Modi in North Gujarat, Central Gujarat, Kutch and Saurashtra region and assist the local BJP leaders for the December elections.

UNI