Sri Vijaya Puram, Sept. 8: The Chairman of the Campaign Committee of ANTCC, Shri. TSG Bhasker, has urged the Andaman & Nicobar Administration to take immediate steps to address the shortage and abnormal increase in prices of essential commodities being experienced by the people across the Islands.
In a letter addressed to the Director, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Shri. Bhasker highlighted that the prices of almost every essential commodity have witnessed a significant increase over the last few months, putting a heavy financial burden on the common people.
He pointed out that the prices of grains, sugar, cooking oil, vegetables, fruits, other perishable goods, medicines and household necessities and appliances have increased considerably.
Highlighting the severity of the situation, Shri. Bhasker stated that the price of potato has reportedly increased to as high as ₹180 per kg, making even basic food items increasingly unaffordable for ordinary families.
He said the abnormal rise in prices is particularly affecting middle-class and economically weaker families, who are already struggling with the high cost of living in the Islands.
Shri. Bhasker urged the Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs Department to immediately examine the reasons behind the abnormal increase in prices, including whether the situation is linked to supply shortages, transportation costs, distribution issues or other factors.
He also called upon the Administration to ensure the regular and adequate supply of essential commodities throughout the Islands and take effective measures to bring prices back to reasonable and affordable levels.
“The people of Andaman & Nicobar Islands should not be forced to bear the burden of unchecked price rise and shortages of basic necessities. The Administration must urgently intervene and ensure that essential commodities remain available at reasonable prices,” Bhasker said.