BJP raps closure of check-gate against agri produce

Aizawl, Jan 15 (UNI) The BJP state unit today criticised the closure of Vairengte check-gate near Assam-Mizoram border by Mizoram Farmers' Society against Mizoram's agricultural produce.

''For the benefit of the farmers, the Mizoram Farmers' Society (Mifas) should be restrained from closing the Vairengte check-gate for free movement of Mizoram's agricultural produce,'' the party demanded in its memorandum submitted to the Governor today.

'' The action of the Mifas, a frontal organisation of the ruling Mizo National Front (MNF), is grossly unconstitutional, and a violation of fundamental rights for free trade,'' the memorandum added.

The party also accused the MNF of involving in a nexus with traders from Silchar to victimise the farmers by forcing them to accept much lower procurement prices for their agricultural produce, especially ginger, than the prevailing market rates.

''The Mifas offers only Rs 8 per kg of ginger while other organisations/companies are willing to pay Rs 10 and even upto Rs 20 for the same,'' the memorandum said, adding ''By such activities the MNF is augmenting the sufferings of the people who are already reeling under the impact of Mautam famine induced by rodents.'' The memorandum also urged the Governor to arrange free distribution of rice to all famine-affected areas in the state with immediate effect. It also alleged that a serious situation has been created by the MNF government by building up an approximately Rs 2000 crore deficit in the nine years of misrule.

''This is a clear mismanagement of funds provided by the central government during the nine years,'' it said, demanding a probe into the MNF's alleged nexus with underground organisations from the neighbouring states and countries.

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