The Opposition has raised concerns over the temporary ban imposed on the importation of fertilizers to Sri Lanka, stating that it was a shortsighted decision taken by the Government.
Issuing a statement, Opposition Leader MP Sajith Premadasa said this decision could lead to a food shortage in the country or worsen up to a famine in the future.
Full statement:
Fertilizer ban of the Government which would turn the country into a Visala
The chemical fertilizer ban without a proper plan makes it pretty much clear that the government aims to oppress the general public rather than enable them to live. This decision that the government has taken in a hurry would unavoidably make a food shortage which could worsen up to a famine in the country. We have no objection whatsoever about improvements that need to be introduced into the use of organic fertilizer. However, soon the government will have to experience the consequences of this deadly blow delivered on the entire community life in the country by this sudden chemical fertilizer ban imposed shortsightedly.
The government claims that it is going to import organic fertilizer by banning importation of chemical fertilizer, which would bring hazardous consequences. It is highly questionable whether the government is in a conspiracy to make our country one of the largest “Garbage Mountains” in the world. Importation of these waste fertilizer could also spread out different types of fungi and harmful bacteria. These importations are also contrary to the Fauna and Flora Ordinance.
This arbitrary decision of the government is also not one taken with backing of a sufficient supply of organic fertilizer for use in the country. Seeds planted in this country for a long period of time are used to chemical fertilizer. Un-practical Decisions taken with no scientific basis will pave the way only for much peril.
We are already witnessing negative outcomes of the fertilizer ban, which has made paddy farmers quite helpless. They remain waiting for hours in queues before Agriculture Centers for their share of fertilizer. Not only that, also potato cultivators as well as other crop cultivators have fallen to the fire out of the frying pan due to this arbitrary decision of the government.
There is a possibility of emerging a new Corona cluster due to the competition created to get chemical fertilizer from the market at black market price. First of all, people should live, for which food becomes the most important factor. The entire world has turned out to be a Visala because of this Corona pandemic. Along with fear of disease and death, this government has also created the fear of famine thus, bringing all three fears to the people.
According to Aristotle, “Hunger and Freedom are the parent of every revolution” and, the arbitrary activities and conduct of the government will only push people towards that revolution. Government should take steps to make people live and facilitate their livelihood and, we emphasize that it should take immediate action to withdraw such irrational and objectionable decisions.
(NewsWire)