Kolkata, Aug. 25 -- With prices of essential commodities such as sugar, edible oil, garlic and rice rising sharply, the Enforcement Branch (EB) on Tuesday conducted raids across several Kolkata markets to check hoarding, black marketing and irregularities in supply.
The action came within 24 hours of Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari directing the administration to intensify market surveillance. At a press conference at Nabanna on Monday, Adhikari said the "leakage" behind the rise in sugar prices had been identified and warned of strict action against those illegally stocking essential commodities. He also assured that sugar prices would be brought under control within two to three days.
Following the directive, around 10 EB teams were formed by Lalbazar on Monday night. From Tuesday morning, the teams inspected markets across the city, including Sealdah's Koley Market and Bhawanipur's Jadubabur Bazar, as well as Maniktala.
Officials checked the prevailing prices and supply of sugar, rice, paddy, edible oil and other essential commodities, while looking for illegal stockpiling or artificial shortages.
The administration is particularly examining why sugar prices have risen sharply and whether any irregularity in the supply chain is contributing to the increase. Sugar prices have reportedly risen by around Rs 20 per kg in 20 days, amid a debate over the role of ethanol-related factors.
The crackdown was not limited to Kolkata. Administrative teams also conducted inspections in districts, including Bishnupur in Bankura, where fish markets and hotels were checked for illegal stocking and food-safety compliance.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.