A public dispute has emerged between oil dealers in Manipur and the state’s Consumer Affairs, Food, and Public Distribution (CAF&PD) department over the reported petrol stock levels. On August 22, oil dealers accused the CAF&PD department of misrepresenting the state’s petrol reserves, claiming that the actual stock is insufficient to meet the current demand.
The oil dealers expressed concern that the CAF&PD’s statements might lead to unwarranted confidence among the public, exacerbating the existing panic buying. They further asserted that the state government had not provided accurate information on the fuel reserves, which they believe could worsen the supply crisis.
In response, the CAF&PD department reiterated its position that there is an adequate supply of fuel in the state and urged the public to refrain from panic buying. The department also emphasized its commitment to preventing black market activities and ensuring a fair distribution of available fuel stocks.
This exchange has intensified the ongoing concerns over fuel availability in Manipur, where long queues at petrol stations have been a common sight due to the uncertainty surrounding fuel supplies.