Silchar: The District Administration of Cachar, in coordination with Silchar Municipal Corporation (SMC), carried out a major enforcement drive on Tuesday against hotels and restaurants found illegally using subsidized domestic LPG cylinders for commercial purposes.

The operation, led by Assistant Commissioner Unhale Ashish Vidyadhar, IAS, involved teams from the District Administration, SMC, Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), and authorized LPG distributors. Acting on credible intelligence and public complaints, the teams conducted raids across multiple localities in Silchar town.

Officials confirmed that several eateries were using domestic cylinders in violation of rules that mandate commercial establishments to use non-subsidized cylinders.

Authorities stressed that the misuse of domestic LPG not only creates artificial shortages for households but also poses serious safety risks in congested kitchen environments.

SMC Commissioner Srishti Singh, IAS, issued a stern warning: “The misuse of subsidized LPG in commercial establishments is both illegal and unsafe. We have adopted a zero-tolerance policy.

Strict legal action, including penalties and cancellation of trade licenses, will follow. The safety of citizens and fair distribution of resources remain our top priority.”

Assistant Commissioner Unhale Ashish Vidyadhar, IAS, who led the ground operation, said: “This is part of a larger effort to curb black marketing and ensure that domestic LPG reaches the households it is meant for. Such coordinated drives will continue and intensify in the coming weeks.”

Officials added that these raids will not be a one-time measure but the beginning of regular inspections. LPG distributors have also been directed to tighten monitoring to prevent diversion at the supply stage.

Residents, consumer groups, and civic organizations have welcomed the crackdown, describing it as a timely step to address fuel shortages and restore transparency in distribution.

Violators may face stringent action under the Essential Commodities Act, which provides for penalties against illegal use and diversion of subsidized goods.

By mounting this coordinated raid, the District Administration and SMC have sent a clear message: misuse of domestic LPG for profit will not be tolerated, and public safety and consumer rights will be firmly protected.

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