National Desk : Voice of Calcutta

The state government has taken a tough stand following allegations of black marketing and artificial shortage of cooking gas. The Chief Minister has clearly warned that strict action will be taken against anyone found hoarding LPG cylinders to create an artificial crisis in the market. She also cautioned that the government may seize hoarded gas cylinders and distribute them directly among the public if necessary.

Recently, complaints have been coming in from various parts of the state that some unscrupulous traders and suppliers are secretly stockpiling LPG cylinders and creating an artificial shortage in the market. As a result, common people are facing difficulties, with many households reportedly unable to get cooking gas on time. In response to the situation, the state administration has stepped in to address the issue.

Speaking at an administrative meeting in Nabanna, the Chief Minister said,

“Anyone deliberately hoarding gas and trying to sell it at higher prices through black marketing will not be tolerated. No one will be allowed to exploit essential commodities needed by the public.”

She further stated that the concerned departments have already been instructed to increase market surveillance. Joint drives involving the district administration, police and officials from the supply department have also been directed. Immediate action will be taken wherever illegal hoarding of LPG cylinders is detected.

According to sections of the administration, some traders often hide cylinders in warehouses to sell them later at inflated prices in order to earn higher profits. Such practices create unnecessary hardship for the public. To curb this tendency, the state government has decided to adopt a stricter approach.

The Chief Minister emphasized that cooking gas is an essential commodity closely linked to the daily lives of people. “We will ensure strict monitoring so that no one can create an artificial crisis around such an important necessity,” she said.

Officials also indicated that market monitoring will be intensified in the coming days. If allegations of black marketing surface anywhere, prompt investigations will be carried out and necessary action will follow. If required, hoarded cylinders may be confiscated and supplied directly to the public.

Following the government’s strong warning, stakeholders associated with the gas supply chain have become more cautious. Many believe that the move could help reduce the tendency of creating artificial shortages in the market and bring relief to ordinary consumers.

National Desk : Voice of Calcutta