Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Feb 17: With no let up in public protests against the implementation of National Food Security Act (NFSA) here, the Government today sought to clear the confusion prevailing among the masses of Kashmir Valley, saying options are being explored to extend the ration scale.
Since last few many days, the people of the Valley staged protests against the NFSA implementation in the State. Not only yesterday but today also there were protests and shutdown in parts of downtown city here against the NFSA. The areas which observed shutdown and where people staged protests include Khanyar, Nowhatta, Bhori Kadal and its adjoining areas.
As the protests began to escalate, the Director CAPD department Kashmir, A R War while addressing a hurriedly called press conference here said that “miscreants with vested interests” are instigating common people and are creating confusion in their minds with regards to the NFSA.
The Director said that non-priority class comprising of 26.3558 lakh souls would get rations at the rate of Rs 8 (atta) and Rs 10 per kg (rice) followed by 3.88 lakh souls who fall in exclusion category. “Our maximum portion falls in the priority category,” he said, adding that souls falling in AAY category who would continue to get 35 kilograms ration per family, irrespective the number of family members.
When asked that people argue 5 kilograms rice per soul are not enough in the Valley as the rice is their staple food, the Director said that they are exploring possibilities with regard to increase the scale.
The Director said that e-ration tickets are ready with the department and they are directed the District officers to distribute them. He said that the ration booklets for 3 years are also ready and they have allotted them to Assistant Directors for distribution.
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