Date:31/10/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/10/31/stories/2008103159540300.htm

Tamil Nadu - Madurai

“Ration card not must for domestic gas connection”

MADURAI: The Collector S.S. Jawahar has instructed domestic cooking gas distribution agencies and public sector oil marketing companies (OMC) not to insist on ration cards for providing new connections or supplying refills.

Taking cognisance of some complaints, he convened a meeting of cooking gas division of Hindustan Petroleum, Bharat Petroleum, Indian Oil Corporation and agents recently.

In the absence of a ration card, he asked them to accept an equivalent identity proof. He said that the OMCs must adhere to guidelines issued by the Government and ensure that their distributors too followed them.

In the case of those who did not have a ration card or lost it or those who had applied for a new one, or those who had applied for change of address, either a copy or acknowledgement receipt would suffice. Based on either of the two, new connection or refill must be given.

In case of any problem, the public could air their complaints to the Collector at the grievance day meetings. During other days, they can approach the District Supply Officer or the Civil Supplies Tahsildhars.

They can contact the DSO at 94450 00335/ or the Collectorate at (0452) 253 2501, says a press release.