Small and medium scale rice producers say they are faced with injustice as a result of large scale mill owners purchasing paddy at rates higher than the control price.
Speaking during a media briefing this morning the All Ceylon Small and Medium Scale Rice Growers Association claimed certain factions are disregarding the control price imposed by the government.
Member of the Association KAB Abeykeerthi said the subject Ministers must be held responsible.
He noted other business organizations also purchase paddy at higher rates for storage purposes.
He claimed the control price on paddy and rice was imposed based on an agreement reached between the government and mill owners, adding however trust in the government is broken as the agreement has not been met.
Abeykeerthi said the Ministers of Agriculture and Trade stated they will resign from their Ministerial posts if they are unable to sell rice at the control price.
He added a fine of Rs.100,000 is also due to be imposed on individuals selling rice at higher prices, from the 15th of August.
