Minister of Commerce and Industry, Rishad Badiudeen was the Chief Guest at the National Ceremony held during the consumer protection week at Vavuniya Gamii Vidyalaya. While addressing the Public, he said that since independence first time in Srilanka, Consumer Protection Week was declared and 6000 items are being sold at easy payment and discount basis throughout the Island. He regretted to note that one organization has increased price of flour on their own without consulting the Consumer Protection Authority and obtain their approval. High handed act of this organization has placed the consumers in difficulties. Consumer Protection Authority is coming under the purview of Ministry of Commerce and Industry. Hence, it is my bounden duty to order court action against this organization and I have already instructed officers concerned to file court case. Apart from this, steps have been taken against 100 traders, who sold flour at increases prices. They are being produced before the Court of law. Undermining the Consumer Protection Authority and increasing price of essential items has made the Minister somewhat disturbed. Further, he said that 311 CWE Branches are in operation now. Within two months’ time 12 more CWE Branches would be opened. For the benefit of consumers number of CWE branches in the Island will be increased to 500. From today, CWE has introduced 8 incentive schemes to consumers, he said.
Northern Provincial Minister, Sathialingam,MP Sivamohan, PC Members Jeyatilleke and Riffkan Badiudeen, Consumer Protection Authority Chairman, Hasitha Thilakeratne and Ministry Secretary , Tennakone too participated in this National Ceremony and delivered speeches.
