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DMs told to take strict action against hoarders

LUCKNOW: The Uttar Pradesh government has directed the Commissioners and District Magistrates to take strict action against hoarders and blackmarketeers in a bid to arrest the increase in prices of essential commodities.

These directives were issued by Chief Secretary Prashant Kumar Mishra on Wednesday.

Mr. Mishra’s directives come in the wake of concern expressed recently by Chief Minister Mayawati at the increase in the prices of essential commodities. She had blamed the Centre for the price hike, which had impacted the common man.

The Chief Secretary has instructed officials to strictly enforce the Essential Commodities Act, 1955, and the enforcement orders issued under the Act. Mr. Mishra said that a vigil should be maintained on the price spiral. He said the government had received reports of abnormal increases in the rates of essential items like wheat flour, “maida”, “suji”, milk products, vanaspati and other commodities of daily use though the VAT rate for 436 items had been reduced and that for 1,376 commodities not changed, the Chief Secretary said.

Mr. Mishra took a strong view of the price increase being affected by traders and producers by using VAT as an alibi. He stressed on the need to create awareness among consumers regarding the tax applicable or not applicable under the new tax regime. Mr. Mishra also said the traders should be told to realise the tax applicable under VAT.

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