BJP for ordinance on free movement of foodgrains

By Our Special Correspondent

NEW DELHI, JUNE 6. Worried about the impact of WTO provisions on agriculture and small and cottage industries, the Bharatiya Janata Party today virtually advised the Government to take ``corrective steps'' by increasing import duties where necessary. It also suggested that the Government immediately issue an ordinance to allow free movement of foodgrains throughout the country, currently restricted by the Essential Commodities Act.

Talking to presspersons today, the BJP president, Mr. Jana Krishnamurthi, said the Act could not be amended during the last parliamentary session because of the stalling of Parliament by the Opposition.

The Government had already made known its intention to allow free movement of foodgrains, necessary in the new situation of surplus stocks as against scarcity earlier. All that the party was suggesting now is not to delay this further, and do it by ordinance, to give farmers immediate relief.

The Centre had introduced a number of schemes which would impact directly on the lives of the common man to make it better. The States must implement these schemes speedily to enable people to experience the ``human face of economic reforms,'' Mr. Krishnamurthi said.

Reacting to China's statement on India's nuclear policy, he said New Delhi had exercised the nuclear option, after resisting it for years, as a response to existing nuclear powers who were not willing to get rid of their nuclear arsenals. India did not have offensive designs against any country and wished to have friendly relations with all neighbours, especially China. But, Beijing's assistance to Pakistan in the nuclear field and supply of missiles had ``forced India to make adequate preparation to counter Pakistan's capabilities,'' he said.

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