Photo Source: Babushhai Bureau
Chandigarh cracks down on hoarding, black marketing of essentials
Harshabab Sidhu
Chandigarh, May 9, 2025 – In response to rising concerns over hoarding and black marketing of essential commodities, the Chandigarh Administration has imposed strict prohibitions under Section 163 of the Bhartiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023.
The order, issued by District Magistrate Nishan Kumar Yadav, is aimed at curbing artificial scarcity and ensuring the smooth availability of essential goods in the Union Territory.
The administration observed that certain individuals and traders have been involved in unauthorized stockpiling of critical food items and fuel, including petrol and diesel, leading to price hikes and potential law and order issues.
To address this, the District Magistrate has prohibited any person, trader, wholesaler, retailer, or business entity from hoarding or stockpiling essential commodities such as rice, wheat, pulses, sugar, edible oils, vegetables, milk products, medicines, and fuels.
All traders and stockists are also required to declare their current stock to the Department of Food and Supplies within three days.
The order takes effect from May 9, 2025, and will remain in force until July 7, 2025.Citizens are encouraged to report any instances of hoarding, black marketing, or price manipulation to the relevant departments.
Violations of the order will attract legal action under Section 223 of the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and other applicable laws. The directive will be publicized through notice boards and local media.