Former Agriculture Director K.B. Gunaratne stated today (03) that the remarks made by large-scale rice trader Dudley Sirisena yesterday (02) were entirely false. Dudley Sirisena had claimed that the recurring rice shortages in the market were the responsibility of successive governments. However, Gunaratne asserted that Sirisena and four other large-scale mill owners are responsible for these ongoing rice crises.
In recent times, rice has been sold above the controlled market price, with certain varieties experiencing shortages. In response, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake summoned large-scale rice producers on October 24, urging them to sell rice at the regulated price, a proposal to which they reportedly agreed.
However, merchants and consumers continue to report ongoing shortages and complain that rice is not being sold at the controlled prices in the market.
Additionally, a week has passed since the President ordered an immediate report on rice and paddy stock levels, but it has yet to be submitted. When we are inquired about the delay, M.M. Naimudeen, the Secretary of the Ministry of Trade, stated that the report on paddy stock levels is still being prepared and is expected to be presented to the President by November 6.
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