Lucknow: Serious allegations of black marketing and arbitrary price hikes of gutkha and pan masala have emerged from several districts of Uttar Pradesh, triggering concern among retailers and consumers alike. Markets in Lucknow and other cities have witnessed a sharp spike in prices over the past month.
Small retailers, speaking on condition of anonymity, claim that major wholesale traders are selling products well above the previously prevailing rates, forcing shopkeepers to pass on the burden to customers. As a result, consumers are reportedly paying significantly more for popular brands.
According to traders, the price of Kamla Pasand (39 pouches) has risen from ₹165 to ₹250 within a month. Raj Shree (30 pouches), earlier available at ₹125, is now being supplied at ₹185. Similarly, Signature (54 pouches) has reportedly increased from ₹220 to ₹320.
Retailers allege that the price escalation is happening at the wholesale level, leaving them with little choice but to sell at inflated rates. Consumers in several districts have expressed dissatisfaction, claiming that the sudden surge has hit their pockets hard.
Sources suggest that certain large wholesalers may be arbitrarily fixing prices, raising questions about regulatory oversight. Traders and consumers have urged the administration to intervene swiftly, warning that failure to act could further encourage black marketing practices across the state.
