Price Rise: Cong cites coalition problems in UPA

NEW DELHI: Under attack from the opposition on the issue of price rise, Congress has conceded that there is a disconnect between the prime minister’s office and various ministries. The party has blamed the UPA’s failure to rein in prices of essential commodities on “practical difficulties” in coordination in a coalition government.

Besides, the party mouthpiece Congress Sandesh has also warned that “carelessness” in dealing with issues directly related to human feelings always costs “dearly”.

“Some practical difficulties in coordination among the Prime Minister’s office and various ministries are natural in coalition governments,” an editorial in the latest edition of the magazine said. Coming ahead the discussion in Parliament on price rise, the editorial concedes that the issue has troubled the party.

“Time and again some pressing issues do continue to trouble all of us. Inflation is one such issue. The hardships being faced by the common people due to this are a cause of concern to Congress, too...every step necessary to wipe the tears off the face of the common people should be taken.”

“Sometimes even a small issue can negate good work of lifetime. Carelessness in dealing with issues directly related to human feelings always cost dearly...At all costs, the coalition government at the Centre and Congress governments in the states should succeed on this count,” it said while maintaining that people should not harbour any uncertainty as regards to food, security and future of their children.

Meanwhile, a combined opposition on Wednesday disrupted Lok Sabha proceedings during the Question Hour after Speaker Meira Kumar rejected their notices for adjourning the business of the House to take up a discussion on the subject. Members of BJP, the Samajwadi Party and the Shiv Sena rushed to the well of the House after the Speaker gave her ruling. The latter had no option but to adjourn the House till noon. After the proceedings resumed at noon, Ms Mamata Banerjee was allowed to present the railway budget.

Notices for the adjournment motion on the subject had been given by the opposition, including BJP and the Left parties, which otherwise are opposed to each other ideologically.