Indian-American grocery store owner in Silicon Valley charged with price gouging

owner of a popular Indian-American grocery story has been charged with price gouging during coronavirus pandemic, when entire state is under stay-at-home orders. Following consumer complaints, an investigation office revealed that Rajvinder Singh, owner of popular Apna Bazaar in California's Pleasanton, h allegedly increased prices of grocery items following emergency declaration by governor on March 4.

Based on evidence provided by customer receipts, investigation confirmed that pricing of several food items exceeded 10-per cent increase allowed during a state of emergency, with some prices being as much as 200 per cent more than what was previously charged, according to a joint statement issued by California Attorney General Xavier Becerra and Alameda County District Attorney Nancy O'Malley.

food items listed in complaint include yellow onions, ginger, green beans, instant noodles, tea, chili peppers, pomegranates and red yams.

"We take price gouging seriously and are committed to going after those who break law during public health emergency," Becerra said.

Singh faces imprisonment in county jail for not more than a year and/or a fine of not more than USD 10,000. California law prohibits charging a price that exceeds, by more than 10 per cent, price of an item before a state or local declaration of emergency.

" law prevents businesses from profiteering when we are in a state of emergency. All businesses throughout Alameda County must be on notice that we will not sit idly by and allow consumers to fall prey to price gouging. My office will ensure that businesses here to law and do not exploit consumers," said O'Malley.