Guwahati, March 13 — Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday warned that strict action will be taken against anyone found buying LPG cylinders beyond permitted limits amid concerns of a possible fuel shortage linked to ongoing tensions in West Asia. He said authorities have begun monitoring unusual buying patterns and instructed officials to prevent hoarding or black marketing of cooking gas.
“The Government of India has fixed a 25-day gap for LPG booking; earlier it was 22 days. The Chief Secretary has spoken to all the Deputy Commissioners. If any place is found purchasing LPG cylinders beyond their requirement, we will take action,” the Chief Minister told reporters in Guwahati.
Sarma pointed to what he described as an abnormal buying pattern in Dhing in Nagaon district, where a large quantity of cylinders was reportedly purchased within ten days. He said the Nagaon Deputy Commissioner visited Dhing to investigate the purchases and that district collectors (DCs) have been mobilised to stop any misuse of the supply chain.
“To ensure that no black market is created, the DCs have started their work. I will also speak to them so that no one purchases LPG beyond what is required for black marketing, as the whole world is facing LPG-related concerns,” Sarma added.
The Chief Minister stressed the need for vigilance to protect ordinary citizens. “The more careful we are, the better we will be able to tackle the situation. If people are not careful and try to create a black market, then ordinary citizens will suffer. From yesterday we have started monitoring the situation, and if anyone is found engaging in black marketing of LPG, I have ordered that the person be arrested,” he said.
Earlier on March 11, Sarma had sought to reassure the public, saying there was no shortage of domestic LPG in India and that the Union government has adequate mechanisms to ensure uninterrupted supply. “There is no dearth of domestic LPG in the country. India procures LPG and gas from nearly 40 countries, and supplies are being maintained smoothly,” he said.
Original Source: https://assamtribune.com/assam/cm-sarma-orders-crackdown-on-lpg-black-marketing-warns-of-arrest-1609378
Category: Assam,Featured
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Publish Date: 2026-03-13 11:33:00
