HP to seek regulatory steps to control cement price

Admitting that cement prices were high when compared to the cost of production,Dhumal told angry Congress MLAs led by Mukesh Agnihotri that he proposes to write to the PM and concerned Union minister for the introduction of regulatory mechanisms for the building commodity.

Earlier,Minister for Food and Civil supplies Ramesh Dhawala told Agnihotri that it was not within the ambit of the state government to regulate cement prices. He admitted that though the production cost of a cement bag was between Rs 151 to Rs 156,it was being sold for between Rs 305 to Rs 350.

Agnihotri also clashed with Industries Minister Krishan Kapoor,who on Wednesday had not replied to the issue but later told the media that government had already convened a meeting with cement companies to urge them to cut prices.

Minutes before the debate,Kapoor was confronted by Independent MLA Rakesh Pathania,who alleged that a powerful mining mafia was active in Kangra,especially the Nurpur belt. “I have full evidence to show how a nexus of officials and mafia were operating in the area,” Pathania said .

Pathania,a trusted aide of Dhumal,referring to illegal mining activities in Khanyara area,from where Kapoor hails. He alleged that those engaged in the mining enjoyed political patronage .

The issue forced Dhumal to intervene and he asked all MLAs to provide evidence of illegal activity to the government.

“We will act tough and not spare anyone”,Dhumal said.