FOCS warns against price hike, urges crackdown
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, June 02 2025: The Federation of Civil Society Organisations (FOCS) has cautioned businessmen, retailers, and shopkeepers against hiking the prices of essential commodities, including food items and household necessities, during the ongoing flash flood crisis in the state.

In a statement issued on Monday, FOCS noted that shortages of food and safe drinking water have emerged as continuous rainfall and overflowing rivers continue to submerge homes.

While the public struggle to cope, some businesses have taken advantage of the situation by charging exorbitant prices for basic items, the organisation said, while calling for an immediate halt to such unethical trade practices.

FOCS urged the department of weights and measures to take swift action against those engaging in price hike and warned that sellers found exploiting the crisis would face consequences.

The civil body also called on the authorities to ensure the provision of adequate food and medical aid to those currently sheltering in flood relief camps.

It attributed the severity of the flooding to poor drainage maintenance and deforestation in the catchment areas, and urged the government to address these underlying causes through better planning and conservation measures.

FOCS further stressed the need for increased budgetary allocation to departments involved in flood control and disaster management to enhance preparedness for future calamities.

Demonstrating its own commitment to relief efforts, FOCS on Sunday distributed food and financial assistance to flood-affected residents in Khurai area of Imphal East district, the statement added.

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