Finance Minister Arun Jaitely today blamed UPA government for the price rise in the country saying the NDA government has only implemented the decisions taken by the previous regime on diesel price and rail fare hike.

Replying to a discussion on price rise issue in the Rajya Sabha, Mr. Jaitely said the railways incurred loss of 30 thousand crore rupees due to poor management policies and there was no other option except increasing the fare and freight charges to compensate the huge deficit. He said the government was being attacked even though it was yet to outline its financial roadmap in the Rail Budget to be presented tomorrow and the General Budget on Thursday.

Assuring the House that the government has taken all measures to contain price rise of essential commodities Mr. Jaitely asked State governments to take stringent measures against hoarders. He said the government has fixed the Minimum Export Price for Onion and Potatoes at the beginning of the season to check the price rise. The Minister said last year the prices of onion touched hundred rupees a kilogram but this year the new Government has taken corrective measures well in advance.

When targeted by TMC member Derek O'Brien, the Finance Minister hit back indirectly targeting Trinamool Congress chief and former Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee, saying, he does not know whether those who handled railways in the past are the original sinners for the current situation. The Minister said that the prices of food items are under control and there is no need for panic.