Govt to take strict action against traders/retailers for hoarding & blackmarketing: James

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaMarch 20, 2020

Minister in-charge Food Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs James K Sangma on Friday said strict action will be taken against traders and retailers if they are found engaging in hoarding and blackmarketing.

Sangma said in the wake of measures to contain the spread of COVID -19 virus in the state, it has come to the notice of the governemnt that some unscrupulous traders are trying to take advantage of the situation and overcharge customers for both essential commodities and for essential household goods and items or engage in hoarding and blackmarketing .

“It is reiterated that strictest possible action shall be taken against such traders and retailers which even includes arrest and other punitive action as per law,” he said in a statement.

The minister informed that the deputy commissioners have been directed to ensure that the stock of essential commodities is sufficient .

“I have also directed that all government wholesale dealers and Fair Price Shops maintain buffer stock after meeting the needs of the common people and there should be no overcharging of price . Daily stock availability and price monitoring of essential commodities is being personally overseen by me and officers of the Food , Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department,” Sangma said.

“I have directed stringent action including inspection and raids to prevent blackmarketing and hoarding.  Stern action shall be taken as per Section 7 of the Essential Commodities Act  , 1955 and Section 3 of the Prevention of Blackmarketing and Maintenance of Supplies of Essential Commodities Act , 1980,” he added.

Meanwhile, the minister also appeal to the public that there is no need for panic or concern as there is sufficient stock of essential commodities in the state and the situation is being constantly monitored.

“I would urge all citizens of our state to report malpractices to  the Deputy Commissioners and officials concerned directly and kindly cooperate with the State Government  to ensure that there is no hoarding and blackmarketing and artificial shortages and price escalation of essential commodities,” Sangma said.