Date:17/05/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/05/17/stories/2008051760091200.htm

National

Strengthen PDS, says BJP

Special Correspondent

NEW DELHI: Strengthening and expanding the public distribution system to cover all families is the answer to the creeping inflation that is threatening to get out of hand, the Bharatiya Janata Party said even while it hit out at the government for its “failed” steps to curb inflation.

With inflation touching 7.83 per cent for the week ending May 3, up from 7.61 per cent the previous week, BJP spokesperson Prakash Javadekar charged that the United Progressive Alliance government had shown scant regard for food security.

It had failed to adopt a policy of revenue neutralisation in the petroleum sector; and it had failed to increase supply.

“If the government does not act swiftly, anger of people will burst,” as it had done in some other countries, Mr. Javadekar warned.