The move follows a report highlighting soaring prices and was enforced immediately across Bhubaneswar markets.

The decision was taken at a high-level meeting chaired by Additional District Magistrate Ramesh Jena, attended by Khordha District Supply Officer Gyanendra Mishra, BMC officials, and trader representatives. Traders argued that wholesale rates of Rs 500- Rs 600 per quintal, plus transport and sorting costs, pushed retail prices to Rs 14 per kg.

Officials rejected the claim, insisting the ceiling price must not be breached. Onion prices were also capped at Rs 20 per kg.

Soon after, enforcement teams raided Unit-1 and Unit-4 markets, warning traders of strict penalties for violations. Grocery shops were inspected for rice, pulses, and edible oil pricing, while warehouses underwent stock verification.

Authorities urged traders to cooperate, stressing that the crackdown aims to stabilise essential commodity prices and protect consumers from inflationary shocks.