AFTER the recent massive reduction in petrol prices, appreciation of rupee and cracl(down against smugglers and hoarders, one cannot be blamed for expecting considerable reduction in the prices of commodities and transport fares. But except for some reduction in cooking oil and sugar prices, all other items of daily use as well as transportation fares have remained unchanged.
In Johi, people often complain that some petrol pumps supply low-quality `smuggled` fuel, and that too after tampering with meters at petrol pumps.
Every wholesaler, retailer and transporter seems to be above and beyond the law of the land, charging the price of their own choice. There is no body to question them, leave alone putting them behind the bars for exploiting the masses and creating artificial inflation.
The situation, if not managed immediately, may lead to anarchy in society. The departments concerned or regulatory bodies are nowhere in sight.
Two decades ago, there used to be a pricelist on every shop and pushcart.
The market regulation committees and local officials would visit and check the prices and quality of items. Those involved in selling adulterated goods and tampering with the weight would be fined. No such thing happens anymore.
Considering the grip of various mafias overjustabouteverything one can imagine, one wonders who will ensure reductionin prices and transportfares.
