PANDM takes strong exception to price hike
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, May 12 2023:
The Peoples' Action for National Democratic Movement (PANDM) has taken strong exception to the selfish and inhuman practice of price hike by some businessmen while the general mass is reeling under the restive communal situation.
Amidst calls for judicial inquiry into the recent clash from all quarters of the society and while many are taking refuge in relief camps after being displaced from their homes, many businessmen are wilfully looting the public in the broad daylight, said PANDM in a release.
Despite appeals from all sections to make sure prices of essential commodities are controlled, shops along Thangal Keithel, Paona Keithel and Masjid Road were found vending commodities at hiked rates, claimed PANDM.
As the organisation jumped into action and conducted a drive upon receiving prices of chilly, edible oil and other items such as mosquito repellents being sold at higher rates, the vendors were made to refund the excess price they had charged to the respective consumers, it added.
The organisation volun- teers had also warned to take legal help in the event the shops continue such acts, it said.
PANDM also expressed regret over laxity on the part of the authorities concerned and drew attention of the State Government to swing into action and constitute Price Fixation Committee to stop the unjust practice.
Being concerned by the outrageous activities, PANDM has called on officials of Consumer Dispute Redressal Commission along with representatives of Consumers' Club, it said while expressing strong need for voluntary drives to correct the wrongs.
Expressing strong suspicions over some security personnel siding with businessmen conducting unscrupulous vending during these hard time, PANDM also appealed to all concerned to stop such acts immediately and perform their duties honestly.
Reiterating its appeal to avoid artificial price hike and scarcity of essential commodities, PANDM further urged departments concerned, police department and CSO's to join hands and fight against it.