Government today said that price rise is a cause of concern but a downward trend has been noticed during the past fortnight. Talking to reporters in Ranchi, Union Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee said prices of cereals, fruits and vegetables have been on the higher side. He added that if the shortage in supply is not made up through import or other measures, it will further go up. Mr. Mukherjee said that he has allowed not only government agencies but also privae traders to import these essential commodities without any import duty. He however lamented that adequate imports are not taking place because the imported price is high and the domestic price is lower. Referring to the short fall in sugar, edible oils, and pulses the Finance Minister said that the international production has also gone down while prices remain high making it difficult to import by private players. Replying to questions on Madhu Koda scam, Mr. Mukherjee said all aspects of the corruption is being looked into. He said unless the investigation is over it is difficult to find out the motive. Former chief minister Madhu Koda and three office former cabinet members are in the judicial custody in connection with separate cases relating to disproportionate assets.<br/><br/>Meanwhile, BJP today charged the Congress led UPA with failing to check rising prices of essential commodities. Senior Party leader and former Finacne Minister Yaswant Sinha told media in Ranchi that never in the history inflation went beyond the 17 points. He said the economic measures of the Central Government is responsible for the plight of the common man. <br/>