BJP voices concern over rise in inflation

New Delhi, Jan 20 (UNI) Raising alarm over the inflation rate crossing six per cent level, the BJP today said it was a ''red signal'' for the Indian economy while the worst part was that the government was ''clueless'' about the impending dangers.

BJP Spokesman Prakash Javadekar said the six per cent plus inflation was a gift of the UPA government to the aam aadmi (common man). The prices of essential commodities in the last couple of years had rendered them beyond the reach of the common man.

The prices of daily items of use like rice and wheat, priced at above Rs 20, and rates of pulses surging between Rs 50 to 60 and prices of edible oil hovering around Rs 60 were hurting the common man.

He said inflation affected the purchasing power of the ordinary citizens and the result will be hardening of the interest rate which in turn would stunt the growth rate of economy.

''The government made announcements to control the situation by importing wheat and pulses but it was not found fit for consumption by the consumers,'' he alleged.

The BJP, he said, wanted the government to ensure enough quantity of essential commodities to be made available through the Public Distribution System and steps taken against hoarding of wheat and essential commodities.

UNI