‘Diabetes, people take less sugar’: Bihar minister triggers row

Patna: Bihar Rural Development Minister Shravan Kumar has faced sharp criticism over his response to questions about soaring sugar prices, with his remarks triggering a wave of anger on social media.

Asked about sugar prices reaching Rs 65-70 per kg in several markets, including Bihar and Kolkata, Kumar said that people were consuming less sugar because health problems, particularly diabetes, had become increasingly common. He questioned whether people still regularly ate sweets and suggested that higher sugar prices would therefore have little impact. The comment drew criticism for appearing to dismiss the financial burden faced by consumers instead of addressing the price rise.

The controversy comes as sugar prices remain elevated across parts of the country. Critics accused the minister of making light of a problem affecting ordinary households and said the government should focus on measures to contain prices rather than making comments about people’s health.

The Centre, meanwhile, has said it is closely monitoring the sugar market and rejected the diversion of sugar towards ethanol production as the reason for the current price increase. The Consumer Affairs Ministry expects sugar production in the current season to decline to around 306 lakh metric tonnes.

With the festive season approaching, the government has also taken steps aimed at preventing further price escalation. It has permitted duty-free imports of up to one million tonnes of sugar until October 31 under the tariff-rate quota system. The Directorate General of Foreign Trade issued the order allowing the imports.

The measures come as the government seeks to keep sugar prices under control during a period when demand traditionally rises. Kumar’s remarks, however, have shifted attention towards the political fallout from the price increase, with the minister facing criticism over his response to the concerns of consumers.