Akhil Gogoi Blames Illegal Syndicates for Soaring Assam Food Prices

Guwahati: Sivasagar MLA Akhil Gogoi blamed an illegal syndicate tax for the sharp rise in food prices across Assam. Trucks hauling goods into the state face forced levies at the Srirampur and Boxirhat entry points. These costs hit the pockets of every shopper in Guwahati.

Gogoi highlighted the massive markup on eggs. While the National Egg Coordination Committee sets a benchmark rate of Rs 5.75, local prices have surged to Rs 10 per egg. "An egg should not cost more than Rs 5.75 as per the National Egg Coordination Committee. However, consumers in Guwahati are paying Rs 8.50 to Rs 10 because trucks entering Assam through Srirampur and Boxirhat are allegedly charged Rs 3 per egg at syndicate gates," he said.

The price gouging extends far beyond eggs. Items like fish, rice, pulses, and fruits also face heavy surcharges before they reach store shelves. Even dry betel nuts leaving the state incur an illegal fee of Rs 60 per kilogram.

The Raijor Dal leader pointed fingers at Cabinet Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah and BTC chief Hagrama Mohilary. He accused both men of backing the illicit network. Neither politician offered a response to the claims. The Assam government remains silent on the matter for now.