"Today, there are attempts in the country to divert the attention from basic issues. Efforts are made to create unwanted problems. There is no doubt that stringent action needs to be taken against corruption in any form.

"But we see that a new class, in the name of corruption, is seen in Mumbai, in Delhi. It doesn't have any connection with poverty. They have nothing to do with the pains the poor suffer due to corruption. Such a class is creating confusion in the society," Pawar said.

The agriculture minister was speaking at a convention of his party's women's wing in suburban Malad.

"The basic issues are sidetracked and there is delay in implementing schemes for the poor people," Pawar said.

"There is no doubt that corruption should end. However, when such a bill is tabled in Parliament, deliberate efforts are made to bring in so many amendments and to ensure that it is not passed," he said.

The National Food Security Act will come into existence soon, Pawar said.

On reports that the Bill was scuttled by him, Pawar said, "As the minister in-charge of food production, I give my word on behalf of farmers that they will produce the food grains, needed to be provided under the scheme."

The minister said, he was of the view that the genuinely needy should benefit from the scheme.

"There are some reports in newspapers that I am opposed to this (Act). I am opposed to one thing - when I glance at the list, I don't see names of the real poor but of those having vehicles. Has the definition of poverty changed? I don't know," Pawar said.