Assam CM Directs Officials To Intensify Market Surveillance To Control Prices

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday issued a strong warning against any unfair increase in the prices of essential commodities, directing the state administration to maintain strict surveillance over markets across the state. The Chief Minister said the government is closely tracking price movements to ensure stability and protect consumers from sudden or unjustified price hikes. He stressed that any attempt to exploit market conditions for profiteering will not be tolerated. Officials have been asked to act swiftly wherever irregularities are detected. The statement comes amid concerns over fluctuations in retail prices of essential goods in several parts of Assam.

In a post on social media platform X, Sarma reiterated that the government and district administrations are keeping a “close eye on the market” to prevent abnormal escalation in prices. He instructed officials across all districts to monitor daily price trends of essential commodities such as food items, cooking oil, and household goods. The Chief Minister also directed enforcement teams to take strict action against traders found violating pricing norms. Authorities have been asked to ensure that consumers are not burdened by sudden or unexplained increases in retail costs. The emphasis, he said, is on transparency and accountability in the supply chain.

According to senior government officials, the Chief Minister reviewed the state’s existing price monitoring mechanism during a high-level assessment meeting held on Monday. He directed Deputy Commissioners to intensify field-level inspections and strengthen district monitoring systems. District Monitoring Committees led by Deputy Commissioners have been asked to hold meetings within the next three to four days to assess local market conditions. These committees will also review supply chains, stock availability, and compliance with government guidelines. The objective is to ensure early detection of price manipulation and prevent hoarding or black-marketing.

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The Chief Minister also ordered that all retail and wholesale shops must clearly display prices of essential commodities. This measure is aimed at improving transparency and enabling consumers to compare rates easily across markets. Officials warned that strict penalties, including cancellation of trade licences in serious cases, will be imposed on those found indulging in unfair pricing practices. The government has also directed weekly coordination meetings between Deputy Commissioners and local trade bodies to address supply-related concerns and maintain stable market conditions across districts.

In addition, Sarma instructed officials to expedite Aadhaar seeding under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana to remove duplication in LPG distribution and ensure fair delivery of benefits. The state government said these combined measures are intended to stabilise markets, prevent profiteering, and guarantee uninterrupted availability of essential goods for citizens. Authorities have also been asked to maintain continuous monitoring of supply chains to avoid disruptions that could lead to artificial price rises.

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