Task force raids Bardhaman markets amid war tensions to curb black marketing on CM’s orders

Acting on Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s orders, a state task force conducted raids across multiple markets in Bardhaman on Saturday to check black marketing and price hikes of essential commodities. The action follows concerns that a war-like situation could lead to artificial shortages and profiteering by certain traders. The task force included officials from the community development office, the state agriculture department, and police.

The Chief Minister, speaking from Nabanna on Thursday, directed officials to take immediate action to control prices and ensure the availability of essential items. She emphasized that inspections should not be limited to cities but must extend to rural markets as well. Her statement came after India responded to the Pahalgam attack with ‘Operation Sindoor’, and reports suggested Pakistan might be preparing a counter-attack. Officials fear that the possibility of war could push up prices of vegetables, fish, and other staples.

During the Bardhaman raids, prices of potatoes, onions, okra, and brinjals were found to have increased slightly. According to the Chief Minister, the price of fish had risen significantly. Task force members visited each shop, checked the prices of essential items, and verified the accuracy of weighing machines. Authorities also investigated whether any vendors were tampering with weights or charging above the standard rates.

The Chief Minister expressed concern over rising prices and said, "The prices of potatoes and onions should not increase any further." She also directed that market raids continue and warned traders against exploiting the situation. The task force has been instructed to monitor if vegetables are being smuggled across borders for profit and whether traders are hoarding goods to create artificial scarcity.

Officials said they would take strict action against any trader found charging excessive prices or engaging in unfair trade practices. ‘Sufal Bangla’ stalls are offering vegetables at lower rates, raising questions about why regular markets are charging more. The administration aims to stabilize prices and ensure no section of the population suffers due to profiteering under the current circumstances.