Sri Lanka, Sept. 14 -- The absence of Agriculture Minister K.D.Lalkantha and Deputy Minister Namal Karunaratne at the government's maiden farmers rally in Polonnaruwa has sparked concerns in political circles.

The government has launched a series of rallies district wise to address people in the wake of virtual conclusion of its first two years in office.

Polonnaruwa is the largest rice growing districts . In the recent past, farmers were seen protesting over the government's failure to ensure proper market facilities for their produce.

Asked about his absence, Deputy Minister Karunaratne said,"There is no need for everyone of us to go. We extended our fullest support to that rally," he said.

Deputy Minister of Housing T.B. Sarath sa...