Chandigarh Bans Hoarding of Essentials, Traders Given 3 Days to Declare Stocks Amid India-Pakistan Tensions

As tensions with Pakistan escalate, Chandigarh authorities invoke the Essential Commodities Act to prevent shortages; traders must report stock levels of critical items including food and fuel.

May 9, 20205: In response to the ongoing military conflict between India and Pakistan, the Chandigarh administration on Friday invoked the Essential Commodities Act, prohibiting the hoarding of vital items such as rice, wheat, sugar, and fuel. The move comes amid rising public anxiety and reports of panic buying in several border states.

All traders within the Union Territory have been directed to declare their current stock levels to the Department of Food & Supplies within three days, the Press Information Bureau (PIB) confirmed in a post. The measure is aimed at ensuring supply chain transparency and preventing artificial scarcity of everyday goods.

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District Magistrate Vinay Pratap Singh issued the order to curb hoarding, stating that strict action will be taken against violators under relevant sections of the Act. The administration emphasized that maintaining steady access to essential commodities was a top priority during this period of heightened national alert.

This decision comes as the government steps up civilian preparedness and enforces blackouts, border security, and fuel rationing measures across several regions. Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) has already assured the public of sufficient fuel and LPG stock, asking people not to panic buy.

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Chandigarh’s ban is part of a broader effort nationwide to maintain internal stability amid cross-border hostilities, including military strikes, infiltration attempts, and shelling incidents in Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab.

Also Read: Will ATMs Be Shut? Government Addresses Queries Amid Indo-Pak Tensions

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