Authorities have initiated action against illegal sale and unauthorised distribution of urea in Sihphir area of Aizawl after an inquiry found serious violations of government rules.According to officials, MAHFED Ltd. received information about irregular sale of subsidised urea and conducted field inspections on March 20 and March 23 in Sihphir. The inspection included verification of supply practices and interaction with farmers and buyers.The findings revealed that urea, which is a controlled and subsidised commodity, was being sold at prices much higher than the government-fixed rate. While the notified Maximum Retail Price (MRP) is ₹266.40 per 45 kg bag, several cases showed that farmers were charged up to ₹450 per bag.
Officials said such overpricing is a clear violation of the Fertilizer Control Order 1985, which strictly prohibits sale above the prescribed rate. The offence also attracts action under the Essential Commodities Act 1955.During the inspection, authorities also found that a private entity, Zekyl Enterprises, was allegedly involved in unauthorised procurement and distribution of urea. Officials said the firm did not have the required registration under the Fertilizer Control Order and was operating through irregular channels.The investigation pointed to the existence of an illegal parallel supply system, where subsidised fertiliser was being diverted and sold outside the regulated framework. Officials termed this a serious breach of rules that affects fair distribution and harms farmers.
Following the findings, MAHFED has issued show-cause notices to defaulting cooperative societies. At the same time, steps are being taken in coordination with other authorities to initiate legal proceedings against the private firm and shut down the illegal operations.
