Coronavirus: Stringent action against those involved in black marketing, hoarding of essential commodities

Mumbai, March 18/03/2020: Food and Civil Supplies Minister Chhagan Bhujbal informed that his department would take stringent action against shop owners, public distribution shop owners and others who are indulged in creating hurdles in the supply of essential commodities as well as going for black marketing of essential commodities. He told that action would be initiated as per provisions of the prevention of black marketing and maintenance of essential commodities Act, 1980.

Bhujbal said that taking in to account situation arising out of Corona virus spread, possibility can not be ruled out of shortage of essential commodities and selling of such commodities with increased rates. It is necessary that the essential commodities are available easily and at fair prices so that daily routine is maintained for people.

He told that for ensuring adequate supply of essential commodities, the provisions of the act would be implemented to prevent hoarding and black marketing of the essential commodities. He told that stringent action would be taken against individuals involved in hoarding and black marketing of these goods as per provisions in the act.

Bhujbal told that Union Government had issued a notification on March 13th, 2020 declaring surgical Masks (2Ply and 3Ply), N95 masks and hand sanitisers in to the list of essential commodities under annexure of Section 2A of the essential commodities act. He told that action would be taken against those involved in hoarding and black marketing these masks.