West Jaintia Hills Cracks Down on Price Gouging and Hoarding

Shillong: West Jaintia Hills Deputy Commissioner Abhinav Kumar Singh issued a direct order Monday, August 3, forcing all wholesale and retail traders to list prices for essential goods. The directive demands total transparency in every shop and market stall throughout the district. Traders must follow rules set by the Meghalaya Directorate of Food Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs immediately.

The administration declared a total ban on black marketing and artificial scarcity. Traders cannot sell items above government-approved rates or hide inventory. "Strict legal action would be taken against traders found selling adulterated food items or commodities that do not meet the standards prescribed under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and other applicable laws," officials stated. Violators face stock seizures, license cancellations, and prosecution under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955.

Business owners must keep accurate stock registers and purchase bills ready for inspection teams. Market Committees, Dorbar Shnongs, and Trade Associations are now responsible for spreading the word to their members. All shops must align with the Price Monitoring System to avoid heavy penalties.