Guwahati: Petrol pumps across Assam remained closed from 6 am on Wednesday as petroleum dealers launched a 24-hour statewide protest against alleged harassment and unfair practices by oil marketing companies (OMCs).
Organised by the North East India Petroleum Dealers’ Association (NEIPDA), the ‘no-purchase, no-sale’ agitation will continue until 6 am on November 13. The association has also threatened an indefinite shutdown from November 23 if its demands are not addressed.
The dealers have accused OMCs, including Indian Oil Corporation, of making arbitrary decisions, disrupting fuel supplies and imposing conditions without giving retailers an opportunity to explain their position.
Their grievances include cancellation of tank-truck agreements without prior notice, alleged pressure to purchase additional products such as lubricants, blocked fuel-loading facilities and disputed deductions from dealers’ accounts.
NEIPDA general secretary Arup Goswami alleged that oil companies were exceeding their authority and causing financial difficulties for petrol pump operators. The association has also raised concerns over delayed reimbursements and pending payments.
The dealers have demanded the restoration of cancelled agreements, withdrawal of disputed deductions, clearance of outstanding dues and an end to the alleged forced sale of products.
If the dispute remains unresolved, the proposed indefinite shutdown could further affect fuel availability across Assam.
