You are the District Magistrate of a hilly district, which has recently been struck by flash floods and landslides causing supply routes to be cut off. It is brought to your notice that shopkeepers in the area are taking advantage of the situation by exorbitantly increasing the prices of various goods. One example is the case of a dhaba charging Rs. 250 for a paratha citing supply constraints. Others have also been reported to be charging exorbitant prices for transportation and other services. Given the difficult situation, there have also been issues of law and order where people have resorted to picketing of shops in retaliation to the increased prices. On enquiring, representatives of shopkeepers argue that since supply is constrained, prices are bound to increase. They further argue that higher prices are, in fact, helpful in ensuring judicious use of goods and services that are most urgently needed during emergencies.

a. Identify the various issues from the perspective of different stakeholders involved.

b. What will be the course of action you will undertake? Justify your stand with relevant arguments.