Nagpur, March 26 Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said on Thursday that a sudden increase in the sales of Diammonium Phosphate (DAP) fertilizer indicated possible panic buying, and warned against hoarding.
Panic buying of fuels and fertilizers has been seen in many parts of the country amid the conflict in West Asia.
Speaking to reporters here before participating in a Ram Navami celebration at the Poddareshwar Ram Mandir, Fadnavis said that the sales of DAP have increased by nearly 70 per cent compared to the same period last year.
"We noticed during a recent review meeting that fertilizer sales had increased unusually high. This indicates panic buying by people," the chief minister said.
Strict action would be taken against those involved in unnecessary hoarding, he added.
"The Union government has made it clear that there is sufficient supply of LPG and petrol. Despite this, people are lining up at petrol pumps and storing extra fuel, which is not required," the CM said.
"I urge everyone not to panic. There is no shortage of fuel or essential commodities," he assured.