Member of the Central Provincial Council Azad Sally says that information has come to light on the acquisition of 200 metric tonnes of dates donated by the Government of Saudi by a deputy minister and its subsequent distribution among fellow ministers.

The dates were donated for the use of the Muslims in the country during this year’s Ramazan fasting month.

Sally has made this observation in a letter forwarded to Minister of Co-operatives and Internal Trade Johnston Fernando.

He further mentioned in his letter that a huge competition can be seen to sell these dates, acquired by the ministers, to sales outlets in Pettah. He states that while its sale is prohibited under the circumstances, it is sad to note the attempts made to sell the dates when the packaging mentions that it should be distributed free of charge.

Azad Sally has requested Minister Johnston Fernando to take steps, through the chairman of the Consumer Affairs Authority, to immediately conduct raids in order to seize the stock of dates.

Member of the Central Provincial Council Azad Sally went on to further express his deep regret regarding the incident.

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