Reported by Bit Irom
Imphal: The introduction of mandatory e-KYC verification and online booking protocols for LPG refills has triggered a sharp rise in black-market prices across Manipur, with domestic cylinders reportedly being sold for as high as Rs 2,700 in several valley districts.
The spike has coincided with growing public anxiety over LPG availability amid escalating tensions in West Asia, particularly involving Iran and the United States, prompting reports of panic buying and hoarding of cylinders in parts of the state.
Under a directive issued by the Ministry of Petroleum and implemented in Manipur from March 9, consumers are required to complete e-KYC verification and book LPG refills online through their registered mobile numbers to obtain a Delivery Authentication Code (DAC).
Officials said the new system was introduced to streamline distribution and prevent irregular deliveries. However, the implementation has reportedly led to a steep decline in active LPG bookings, with the number of regular consumers dropping from nearly six lakh to around three lakh as many users struggle with the digital verification and booking process.
Despite the tighter regulations, shortages continue to persist, while reports of illegal resale and diversion of domestic LPG cylinders have increased.
Authorities suspect black-market cylinders are entering circulation through multiple channels, including alleged diversion of consumer refills by agencies and resale of subsidised cylinders by consumers themselves shortly after delivery.
Officials have urged consumers not to share their DAC numbers with others, warning that doing so could compromise the delivery process.
While certain government department canteens remain officially exempted and continue to receive domestic refills, widespread suspicion persists among consumers that irregularities within sections of the LPG distribution network are contributing significantly to the black-market trade.