Consumers claim extortion in name of mandatory KYC; agency accused of violating service norms
State Level Coordinator for HP/BP Gas, Himanshu, confirmed that authorities have taken cognisance of the matter and initiated a probe.
INAYAT QAYOOM
BARAMULLA, APRIL 10:
A Bismillah Nawab Bharat Gas agency in District Baramulla has come under serious scrutiny following allegations of illegally charging customers ₹200 for KYC formalities—services that are officially free—prompting an official investigation.
In a development that has sparked outrage among consumers, Bismillah Nawab Bharat Gas Agency has been accused of collecting ₹200 from customers under the guise of mandatory KYC for LPG connections.
Multiple consumers alleged that they were compelled to pay the amount with assurances of receiving a pipeline or related accessory. However, many claim they neither received the promised items nor any payment receipts, raising serious concerns of malpractice and lack of transparency.
Under existing guidelines, KYC for LPG connections is free of cost, making the alleged collection of charges a potential violation of norms. The controversy intensified after video evidence purportedly showing the practice surfaced, with affected residents demanding strict action against those responsible.
Further compounding the issue, the agency—reportedly allotted to cater to the remote border area of Uri—is said to be operating from Baramulla, nearly 50 kilometres away from its designated service area, causing inconvenience to consumers in the intended region.
State Level Coordinator for HP/BP Gas, Himanshu, confirmed that authorities have taken cognisance of the matter and initiated a probe.
“We have received complaints along with video evidence. If any agency is found charging ₹200 for KYC without providing a pipeline, strict action will follow,” he said.
Clarifying the rules, he added that LPG pipelines are eligible for replacement only after five years. “Any instance of collecting money without providing the pipeline, or operating beyond the allotted jurisdiction, will be dealt with strictly,” he said.
Consumers have urged Oil Marketing Companies to ensure a transparent and time-bound investigation, warning that such practices erode public trust and disproportionately impact rural households.(SNS)