Santirbazar: Tension erupted on Monday at Birchandranagar Shahid Smriti Vidyamandir ground under Santirbazar subdivision after several customers accused Shanti Gas Agency of supplying LPG cylinders short of their prescribed weight.
During routine distribution, a few suspicious customers demanded that cylinders be weighed in front of agency staff. Upon checking, multiple cylinders were found to be short by 2 to 4 kg of gas. Of nearly ten cylinders examined, only one matched the correct weight, while the rest showed discrepancies.
Angry customers immediately staged a protest against the agency, alleging that such irregularities had persisted for a long time due to lack of proper monitoring, leaving ordinary consumers repeatedly cheated. They demanded mandatory weight verification before every cylinder distribution and a fair investigation into the matter.
Adding to the allegations, some customers claimed that cylinders were easily available for extra money during gas shortages, raising questions over why regular consumers often go without supply while others obtain it through unofficial payments.
Residents have urged the Department of Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, along with the concerned minister, to order an immediate and impartial probe.
Locals are now awaiting administrative action against the agency over the alleged malpractice.