Srinagar, June 18: With an aim to firmly deal with black marketers, hoarders and adulterators, Jammu and Kashmir government introduced a bill in the state assembly today. Introducing the bill, which amends the Jammu and Kashmir Prevention of Black Marketing and Maintenance of Supplies of Essential Commodities Act 1988, minister for consumer affairs and public distribution, Taj Mohiuddin said it would cover offences like hoarding, adulteration, profiteering, transport, sale of adulterated, sub-standard, spurious, under-weight or expired goods or drugs.

He said the amendment would enable the competent authority to deal instantaneously with the accused.

The minister said various acts to regulate the price of commodities and to ensure their quality and standard were enforced in the state but these did not provide for instant punishment unless the accused was challaned and prosecuted in the court of law.

Bureau Report