Excelsior Correspondent
PULWAMA, Aug 23: Following incessant complaints coming from various quarters regarding illegal diversion of the controlled commodity, Deputy Commissioner Pulwama Dr Raghav Langer today led raids in various parts of the district and the team seized 1.5 lakh litres of kerosene oil.
Deputy Commissioner was accompanied by Assistant Director Food and Civil Supplies Pulwama and Tehsildars of respective areas.
During the searches illegally stored 1.5 lakh liters of kerosene oil was found at Samboora, KhachKoot, Lethpora, Pampore and other places having value of more than Rs 75 lakh.
Multiple FIRs under the Sections 3/7 of Essential Commodities Act, 1955 have been lodged against the culprits while some arrests were also made.
While commenting on the administration’s promptness over the action taken, DC said that cognisance was taken on repeated complaints being received regarding the illegal sales of kerosene oil by some licensed dealers and other miscreants especially at locations along the NH.
He added that kerosene is a controlled commodity and was being illegally sold to some transporters, filling stations, hot wet mix plants and stone crushers in violation of law and rules. He further added that illegal sales and siphoning of Kerosene oil has led to deprivation of the same to thousands of AAY & PHH ration card holders, for whom this subsidised commodity is actually meant.
Many kerosene oil depots were sealed during the process with SKO dealers booked for non maintenance of stock register, sale details, lack of receipts and challans. Directions have been given by the Deputy Commissioner to immediately start the process of cancellation of licenses of those dealers found involved in the illegal act.
Meanwhile, Assistant Director Food and Civil Supplies was also directed to lodge FIR against Tehsil Supply Officer (Kerosene) Pulwama in view of his prime facie involvement in the crime.
Deputy Commissioner also issued an order regarding the decanting of kerosene oil at destined locations in the district wherein SKO dealers have been directed to ensure the same in presence of the respective Tehsildars for verification of quantities decanted under certification of Tehsildar/TSO.
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