Assam Fuel Stations Shut for a Day as Dealers Protest Oil Companies
Key demands include restoration of the cancelled tank-truck transportation agreements, withdrawal of disputed deductions from SAP accounts, immediate release of pending reimbursements and subsidies, and an end to coercive practices
Guwahati: In a significant development petrol pumps across Assam on Thursday went on 24-hours statewide strike to what they called ‘no-purchase, no-sale’ protest against alleged harassment and arbitrary actions by oil marketing companies (OMCs).
The shutdown, called by the North East India Petroleum Dealers’ Association (NEIPDA), will continue until 6 am on November 13. The association has also warned of an indefinite shutdown from November 23 if its grievances remain unresolved.
Dealers accused OMCs, including Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), of adopting high-handed practices, threatening fuel supply disruptions, and taking unilateral decisions without following due process or giving dealers an opportunity to present their side. Major grievances include threats to discontinue petrol and diesel supplies over alleged violations, cancellation of tank-truck consortium arrangements without prior notice, and pressure on dealers to purchase additional products, particularly lubricants.
NEIPDA has further alleged that fuel-loading facilities were blocked and dealers were compelled to install point-of-sale (POS) machines despite concerns over pending payments and financial losses. The association also accused oil companies of making unilateral deductions from dealers’ SAP accounts and delaying reimbursement of approved subsidies and payments made to meet Legal Metrology Department requirements.
NEIPDA General Secretary Arup Goswami said oil marketing companies are not law-enforcement agencies and alleged that dealers were being harassed without being given a proper hearing. He also raised concerns over the forced sale of products that customers do not purchase, noting that unsold stock remains at retail outlets, poses safety hazards, and causes substantial financial losses to dealers.
The protest has affected fuel availability in Guwahati and adjoining areas of Kamrup district, including Jagiroad, Rangia, and Boko, impacting daily commuters, commercial vehicle operators, and other consumers. According to the association, several rounds of discussions with the oil companies failed to resolve the issues, prompting the 24-hour action.
Key demands include restoration of the cancelled tank-truck transportation agreements, withdrawal of disputed deductions from SAP accounts, immediate release of pending reimbursements and subsidies, and an end to coercive practices. The association has called for a fair mechanism that allows dealers to explain their position before any punitive action affecting fuel supplies.
The November 12 agitation marks the first phase of the protest. If demands remain unmet, the Greater Guwahati unit of NEIPDA has threatened to escalate to an indefinite ‘no-purchase, no-sale’ shutdown from November 23.
