Amritsar, Sept. 13 — Punjab Rural Development and Panchayat Minister Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal on Friday led inspections in flood-affected villages of Ajnala and nearby areas, warning shopkeepers and traders against black marketing of essential goods.
“Stay away from black marketing. Don’t increase people’s troubles — if you do this, strict action will be taken under the law,” Dhaliwal told traders during his visit, speaking in Punjabi. Accompanied by police and local officials, he cautioned that profiteering during the ongoing crisis would not be tolerated.
The minister said shop licenses could be canceled, stores sealed, and criminal complaints registered if violations are proven.
He added that raids would continue daily, with a 24-hour helpline set up to register consumer grievances. “The message is clear: honesty and fairness must come first, especially in these difficult times,” Dhaliwal noted.
Market associations were also warned that hoarding or overcharging would bring “immediate and strict punishment.” Residents in Ajnala welcomed the inspections, saying the government’s visible action had restored their confidence that profiteers would not be allowed to exploit the crisis.
Sarwan Singh Pandher, president of the Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee, pointed out that prices of essential items are already surging in several districts. “A 25-kg fodder packet worth Rs 550 is now being sold for up to Rs 630,” Pandher said, adding that rates for ration and medicines had also climbed. He further noted that boats used in rescue operations were being sold at double or triple their normal price.
Local reports confirm sharp increases in boat and equipment prices across Amritsar, Ropar, and Chandigarh. Wooden boats previously priced around Rs 30,000 now cost Rs 60,000. Fiber and rubber boats, once available for Rs 30,000–40,000, are being sold for up to Rs 80,000 — with some listed for as high as Rs 2.5 lakh online. Generators, petrol, and basic supplies have also seen steep price hikes.
The Punjab government has taken what officials describe as a “zero tolerance” approach. Several shopkeepers face cases after Dhaliwal’s surprise visits, with license cancellations already under way. Routine patrolling and secret checks will continue in the coming days.
Flood-hit residents have praised the government’s swift response. “This is the first time any government has acted so quickly against black marketing,” said a villager in Ajnala. Supporters of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said the administration’s focus on both enforcement and relief supplies shows “a government of the common people” that works on the ground to resolve citizens’ problems.
