Food Minister Afroza Khanam Rita on Saturday said action will be taken against anyone found involved in irregularities at food warehouses across the country.

She said food security and food safety are among the government’s top priorities and warned that no one would be spared if irregularities are detected.

“All food warehouses across the country will be inspected in phases, and immediate action will be taken against those involved in irregularities,” she said.

The minister made the remarks while responding to questions from local journalists after attending a free medical camp and civic reception at Dhankora Girish Chandra High School in Saturia upazila on Saturday afternoon.

“Unsafe food can harm people’s health. Ensuring food safety alongside food security is the first priority of my ministry,” she said.

Afroza Khanam said strict monitoring would be conducted to ensure that food is being properly stored and managed at government warehouses.

She said irregularities had recently been found at a food warehouse in Ghior upazila of Manikganj and necessary action had already been taken against those concerned after the matter came to her attention.

The minister said the country currently has sufficient food stocks to meet any emergency or disaster situation.

“Alongside maintaining adequate food reserves, we are also paying special attention to the supply system so that there is no disruption in food availability during any disaster or crisis,” she said.

Asked about the fertiliser situation, Afroza Khanam said there is currently no fertiliser shortage in Bangladesh.

She said a meeting was held with Prime Minister Tarique Rahman a few days ago, where officials confirmed that sufficient fertiliser stocks were available in the country.

“There may be some lack of coordination in fertiliser distribution in certain areas. However, there is no reason to fear any disruption to rice production during the ongoing Aman season,” she said.