Bihar council debates fertilizer black marketing allegations

The state legislative council in Patna had a tense meeting on Monday. Opposition lawmakers raised serious concerns about the black market for fertilizers. They claimed that farmers are being forced to pay over three times the normal price for these essential goods. Rabri Devi, the leader of the opposition, called for a detailed investigation into the issue. She also urged the government to take action against the sale of adulterated rice. RJD MLC Qari Sohaib highlighted the struggles of farmers, emphasizing how the black market is affecting them. He accused some officials in the agriculture department of being involved in this illegal activity. Sohaib stated that farmers are facing significant challenges in obtaining fertilizers. He requested the formation of a House committee to look into the situation more closely. Other members, like Sunil Singh, backed his comments, saying that the problem is widespread across Bihar. In response, Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha defended the government's actions. He called on lawmakers to provide specific examples of black market sales, rather than making broad, unfounded claims. The chairperson of the council supported Sinha's request for concrete evidence.