Assam Assembly: CPIM, AIUDF MLAs raise alarm over 'syndicate-driven' price hikes

The Assam Legislative Assembly witnessed a heated debate over the growing influence of syndicates in the state's economy, as MLAs from CPIM and AIUDF raised concerns over the impact on essential commodities and the common people.

CPIM MLA Manoranjan Talukdar was the first to bring up the issue, questioning the government about the unchecked operations of various syndicates that are allegedly inflating prices across different sectors. 

AIUDF MLA Aminul Islam also backed Talukdar, highlighting how syndicates have made everyday goods more expensive for the people of Assam.

According to the MLAs, despite consumers already paying Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST), they are forced to shell out extra money due to illegal syndicate charges. These additional costs, imposed at various stages of trade and transportation, have significantly burdened the public.

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The issue of syndicates allegedly controlling the trade of agricultural and poultry products was also highlighted. 

According to the MLAs, in regions such as Sagaliya and Srirampur, the betel nut (supari) syndicate is allegedly exploiting cultivators, restricting their freedom to sell their produce at fair prices. Similarly, the poultry sector has also been affected, with syndicates dictating the pricing of broiler chickens and eggs, leading to steep price increases.

Both MLAs demanded immediate government intervention to dismantle these illegal networks and ensure that market prices remain fair for consumers. 

The opposition pressed the ruling government to take stringent action and implement mechanisms to prevent syndicate-driven price manipulation in the state.