In a significant move to curb the illegal diversion of subsidized fuel, the Additional Collector of Khammam, P. Srinivas Reddy, has issued a stern warning to those involved in the unauthorized use of domestic LPG cylinders. During a high-level meeting with Civil Supplies and Police officials at the Collectorate Conference Hall on Thursday, the Additional Collector emphasized that the administration would take zero-tolerance measures against offenders.
He clarified that anyone found illegally hoarding or diverting domestic cylinders would face immediate prosecution under Section 6A of the Essential Commodities Act (EC Act), 1955, alongside severe criminal charges. This crackdown is aimed at ensuring that the benefits of government subsidies reach the intended common households rather than being siphoned off for commercial gains.
Distinguishing Domestic and Commercial Usage
The Additional Collector P. Srinivas Reddy pointed out a growing trend of hotels, restaurants, and roadside eateries using domestic cylinders to save on fuel costs. He reiterated that using domestic gas for commercial purposes is strictly prohibited by law. Commercial establishments are legally mandated to use only commercial cylinders, which are priced differently and do not carry the government subsidy intended for families. Using domestic cylinders in a business environment is not only a financial crime against the state but also poses a significant safety risk, as commercial setups often lack the regulated infrastructure required for domestic-grade equipment. To enforce this, Civil Supplies officials have been directed to conduct continuous surprise raids across the district, with the authority to cancel the licenses of any business found violating these norms.
Community Vigilance and Public Responsibility
The Additional Collector P. Srinivas Reddy called That If anyone witnesses the illegal storage or commercial use of domestic cylinders, they are encouraged to report it immediately to the Civil Supplies Department or the nearest police station. He stressed that the misuse of subsidized cylinders causes a direct financial loss to the government and creates an artificial shortage for common citizens. The Additional Collector stated that by ensuring every cylinder reaches a kitchen instead of a commercial stove, the administration aims to protect the interests of the poor and middle-class residents of the district.
The Critical Role of e-KYC and OTP
A major portion of the discussion focused on the streamlining of the subsidy distribution system through technology. Additional Collector P. Srinivas Reddy urged all LPG consumers to complete their e-KYC (Electronic Know Your Customer) process immediately. He explained that during the delivery of a gas cylinder, it is now mandatory for consumers to provide the One-Time Password (OTP) sent to their registered mobile numbers. This OTP serves as a digital handshake, confirming that the delivery was made to the rightful owner. Failure to provide this OTP or complete the e-KYC process could lead to the immediate suspension of the gas subsidy. Furthermore, the Additional Collector warned that if consumers do not visit their respective gas agencies to update their KYC details soon, their gas supply might be completely blocked in the near future.
Deputy Editor, Prime Post
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