Sambalpur: 10 and 20 Rupee Notes and Coins Missing from Market; Locals Demand Action Against Currency Smuggling

People Struggle Without Rs. 10 and Rs. 20 Notes

Sambalpur: In Rengali, especially in Laida and nearby areas, people are facing a severe shortage of Rs. 10 and Rs. 20 currency notes, as well as coins. These small denominations are essential for daily transactions, particularly for the poor, lower-middle-class, and middle-class people who frequently use them in local markets. Shopkeepers and vendors also rely heavily on these notes for their businesses.

Why Are Small Notes Missing?

For the past few months, these small notes have been missing from circulation. The Laida branch of the State Bank of India (SBI) usually receives cash from the Kuchinda SBI branch. However, according to reliable sources, some corrupt bank officials and commission agents are illegally diverting a major portion of the Rs. 10 and Rs. 20 notes to Kolkata instead of supplying them to the local market.

Profits in Illegal Currency Trade

Reports suggest that these commission agents are making significant profits by selling small denomination notes. For every Rs. 1,000 worth of Rs. 10 and Rs. 20 notes, agents earn a commission of Rs. 100 to Rs. 150. During festive seasons like Dussehra and Diwali, this commission increases to Rs. 200. In Kolkata, traders reportedly pay Rs. 900 to Rs. 1,000 for Rs. 800 worth of small currency notes, making this illegal trade highly profitable.

Local Markets Suffer

Due to this unethical practice, local buyers and sellers in Rengali are facing major difficulties. The shortage of small notes is disrupting business transactions, making it harder for people to buy and sell daily goods. The public is demanding an immediate investigation into this matter to stop the illegal supply of currency to Kolkata and ensure that small denomination notes remain available in the local markets.

Call for Action

Residents of Laida and nearby areas are urging higher authorities to take strict action against those involved in this illegal trade. They demand a thorough investigation and strict measures to ensure that small currency notes are properly distributed in the region, preventing further inconvenience for common people.