Bhopal, Mar 15: Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has said that those who cheat consumers would not be spared in any case. The efforts to sell products through misleading advertisements are also improper and fall in the category of criminal act. There is also need for enacting a law to curb misleading advertisements. Chief Minister Chouhan was addressing the state-level conference held at Vitthal Market Dussehra Maidan to mark International Consumers Day today.

Chouhan said that voluntary organisations and government must work jointly in the interest of consumers. In State farmers are being given additional Rs 100 per quintal on wheat by the state government with a view to providing proper price for their products. Chief Minister Chouhan said that surprise checks of ration shops have helped in setting the public distribution system right and protection of poor consumers' interests. He said that the state government would take stern action against those who resort to adulteration in foodstuff or indulge in irregularities in weights and measurements. There would be no leniency for the culprits in such cases. The Chief Minister said that consumer protection measures must be implemented with a firm hand.

Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Protection Minister Akhand Pratap Singh said that effective steps have been taken for consumers' welfare in the state under the instructions of Chouhan. These steps must also be supported by people. Principal Secretary MK Rai shed light on departmental activities. Food Commissioner KP Singh proposed a vote of thanks. Earlier, Chief Minister Chouhan was accorded a warm welcome.

On this occasion, the Chief Minister honoured organisations and individuals who put up excellent performances in the sphere of consumer protection. Prizes were also given away to the winners of essay and poster competitions held on the subject of consumer protection. Those present at the function included Civil Supplies Corporation Chairman Jaswant Singh Hada, other public representatives, Weights and Measurement Controller Ajatshatru and citizens. Chief Minister Chouhan also inaugurated a Consumer Protection Exhibition.