Serious allegations of black marketing and overcharging have surfaced against Alisha Gas Agency in Amritsar, raising concerns over the functioning of local LPG distributors.
Despite repeated claims by the District Food Supply Department about tightening control over illegal gas cylinder trade, ground realities appear different. Within a span of one week, two separate incidents involving alleged corruption and black marketing have come to light against the agency.
Domestic Cylinders Supplied for Commercial Use
According to reports, delivery personnel of the agency were allegedly caught on camera supplying domestic LPG cylinders to sweet shops in Chowk Farid area. When questioned, the delivery staff reportedly claimed that they were instructed by the agency owners to mix commercial and domestic cylinders for supply to shopkeepers.
The delivery workers stated that they earn only ₹10 to ₹20 per cylinder and were acting under instructions.
Consumer Alleges Overcharging and Illegal Fees
In another case, Gurdeep Singh, a resident of Ajit Nagar, accused the agency of незакон charges. He alleged that he received a call from the agency office stating that his KYC was pending. Upon visiting the office, he was charged ₹500 for a duplicate copy and ₹200 for KYC processing, without being issued any receipt.
He further claimed that whenever the delivery man brings a cylinder home, no memo is provided and ₹40 to ₹50 extra is charged as delivery fees above the official cylinder price.
The consumer has filed a formal complaint with the District Food Supply Office against the alleged corruption and black marketing practices.
Agency Owner Responds
When contacted over the phone, Rajesh Madan, owner of Alisha Gas Agency, clarified that the ₹200 KYC charge includes a gas pipe, and only ₹75 is charged for issuing a duplicate copy. He stated that the matter would be investigated once full consumer details are received.
Department Orders Inquiry
District Food Supply Officer Jagwinder Singh confirmed that the department has taken note of the media reports and the consumer complaint. He assured that departmental teams will soon conduct inspections regarding the alleged domestic LPG black marketing and appropriate action will be taken if violations are found.
The incident has sparked concern among residents, who are demanding strict action to prevent misuse of subsidized domestic LPG cylinders.
