Masks, sanitisers selling at high rates: Guj Dy CM promises action

Strict action will be taken against those charging inflated prices for masks, sanitisers and other such items essential in the fight against the spread of the novel coronavirus, Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel said on Tuesday.

Patel's assurance came amid widespread reports of wholesalers and retailers charging rates higher than the ones prescribed for masks and sanitisers.

"We have come to know that some wholesalers and retailers are charging high prices for items like masks and sanitisers required to fight coronavirus. Selling items at rates higher than MRP is not permissible. Legal action will be taken against offenders," Patel said.

Patel informed that the state's drug controller had been directed to take strict action in the matter. Meanwhile, Congress spokesperson Manish Doshi, in a letter to the state government, said complaints were coming in from cities and towns regarding black marketing of essential items like masks and sanitisers.

"It is the duty of the state government to ensure that citizens are not cheated in these testing times," Doshi said.