Take steps to stop panic buying: Centre to States on Covid-19 curbs April 15, 2021 An empty grocery store shelves amid fears coronavirus pandemic. - Reuters× It directs States to keep grocery stores, warehouses and chemist shops outside the restrictions under Section 144. The Ministry of Consumer Affairs on Thursday has written to all the Principal Secretaries of States and Union Territories (UT), directing them to take steps to stop panic buying by people and ensure there is no hike in prices of key supplies. In a letter written to State governments, Additional Secretary in Consumer Affairs Ministry Nidhi Khare said due to sudden spike in Covid-19 cases, concerns have been raised about "availability of essential commodities to the common man at fair prices."