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CMs meet likely to call for resurrection of Essential Commodities Act

The much-awaited chief ministers' conference on prices, convened by Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in New Delhi tomorrow, is likely to frame a proposal to empower the administration with more teeth to ensure fool-proof supply of essential commodities at reasonable prices.

The proposal may contain revival of Essential Commodities Act, which lapsed in July or similar provisions on the statute may be incorporated to deal with hoarders and black-marketeers, official sources said.

Food and Civil Supplies Minister Surjit Singh Barnala today held a series of meetings in camera with senior officials of his ministry to discuss the situation and issues, which are likely to come up in tomorrow's meeting.

He also held discussions with officials of other ministries including finance and agriculture.

Being held on the eve of winter session of Parliament, the meeting has acquired significance. It is expected to focus on evolving guidelines for states to check prices.

In the run-up to this meeting, the Centre held a chief secretaries' meeting on November 7 to rein in soaring prices of various commodities, particularly onions, potatoes, edible oils and .

UNI

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