Haryana Government Intensifies Crackdown on LPG Black Marketing
In a decisive move to curb illegal activities surrounding cooking gas, the Haryana government has registered 12 First Information Reports (FIRs) and seized a total of 169 LPG cylinders across the state. This crackdown targets black marketing and unauthorized use of domestic cooking gas, as announced by Minister of State for Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Rajesh Nagar.
Minister Reassures Public Amidst Vigilance Efforts
Chairing the District Public Relations and Grievance Redressal Committee meeting in Kurukshetra, Minister Rajesh Nagar emphasized that the state administration is maintaining a strict vigil to ensure an uninterrupted supply of domestic LPG. "So far, 12 FIRs have been registered and nearly 169 cylinders have been seized," he stated, providing a breakdown of recoveries by district:
- Kurukshetra: 18 cylinders
- Narnaul: 60 cylinders
- Karnal: 5 cylinders
- Ambala: 21 cylinders
- Kharkhoda: 28 cylinders
- Faridabad: 18 cylinders
- Jind: 19 cylinders
Nagar highlighted that district-level committees have been constituted to act swiftly on complaints related to LPG supply and misuse, ensuring a responsive mechanism for public grievances.
No Shortage, Supply Chain Intact: Government's Assurance
Reassuring citizens, the minister firmly stated that there is no shortage of cooking gas in Haryana, and the supply chain remains fully intact. "There was no need to panic. The supply chain from the source remains uninterrupted, and the smooth distribution to consumers is being ensured. The situation within the state is completely under control," he affirmed. This message aims to discourage hoarding and panic-buying, which have been observed in recent patterns.
Consumption Patterns and Public Cooperation Urged
Highlighting normal consumption levels, Nagar noted that Kurukshetra typically consumes about 8,000 cylinders daily, a figure that continues to be maintained without disruption. However, he pointed out a concerning trend: "It has been observed that citizens are rushing to gas agencies to get all their available cylinders refilled. Even individuals who usually procure a cylinder only once every three months are now rushing to place immediate bookings." The minister urged the public to cooperate by procuring cylinders only when necessary, to avoid straining the system and to support the government's efforts in maintaining stability.
Action Against Officials and Grievance Resolution
During the committee meeting, Minister Nagar also ordered action against two inspectors from the Food and Supplies Department for alleged irregularities. He directed that they be re-suspended in connection with an FIR, underscoring the government's commitment to accountability. Of the 15 complaints taken up during the session, nine were successfully resolved, while six remain pending, indicating ongoing efforts to address public concerns effectively.
This comprehensive crackdown reflects Haryana's proactive stance in safeguarding consumer interests and ensuring the equitable distribution of essential resources like LPG.
