Chennai, Aug 1 (IANS) The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), an ally of the ruling United Progressive Alliance (UPA), Sunday asked the central government to intervene and control the spiralling prices of essential commodities.

At a meeting, chaired by IUML president and Minister of State for Railways E. Ahamed, the party expressed concern over the price rise and adopted a resolution calling for an efficient public distribution system.

‘The IUML is concerned over the spiralling rise in prices of essential commodities, which bring hardships for the poor and fixed income groups. An efficient public distribution system has to be envisaged and statutory rationing of foodgrains must be strengthened,’ said a resolution adopted by the IUML.

‘Strong market intervention by the government is necessary to regulate the prices of essential commodities and services,’ the resolution said.

The resolution comes in the backdrop of the opposition stalling parliament’s proceedings last week, demanding a discussion on price rise as an adjournment motion that entails voting. The government says it is prepared for a discussion but not as an adjournment motion.