Bhopal, March 27: The widespread rumors of a fuel shortage have led to panic buying and long lines at petrol pumps in Madhya Pradesh. In response, the Bhopal district administration has released a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to maintain order and reassure citizens. The SOP states that fuel supply in the city is adequate.
Bhopal District Collector Kaushalendra Vikram Singh issued an order on Thursday evening, stating that misleading and unfounded information is being circulated. These rumors are causing unnecessary fear among the public, creating a risk of overcrowding at petrol stations, and challenging law and order.
The order emphasizes the implementation of the SOP under the Essential Commodities Act of 1955 and relevant provisions of the Indian Civil Defense Code. This is to ensure the uninterrupted supply of essential goods, maintain public peace, and curb the spread of misinformation.
The administration clarified that there is no actual shortage of petrol, diesel, or liquefied petroleum gas in the district or the entire state of Madhya Pradesh.
The sudden surge in crowds at petrol pumps is attributed entirely to misinformation circulated on social media platforms and messaging applications.
Relevant departments have been instructed to closely monitor rumors spreading on social media and take immediate action against those disseminating false information. Legal action, including filing FIRs, may be taken against individuals found responsible for spreading panic.
The order also warns that WhatsApp group admins will be held accountable for misleading information and cases will be registered against them under Section 553 of the Indian Penal Code and the Information Technology Act.
Furthermore, the administration has issued a warning against filling fuel in containers like cans or bottles, except under specified circumstances, to prevent hoarding.
Collector Kaushalendra Vikram Singh urged the public to remain calm and not to believe in rumors.
Arpit Soni has had a passion for journalism since the beginning. Now he has turned this hobby into his profession. Arpit, who is a resident of Udaipur, enjoys editing and writing news related to journalism. He has worked as a Senior Content Producer in several important roles at Bhaskar, Patrika, Pratahkal, Punjab Kesari, and Times. Arpit completed his schooling in Udaipur and Jaipur. He has been working in the media industry for more than 10 years, and his journey is still continuing. ✍️📚
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