Bhubaneswar, May 19 -- Odisha Human Rights Commission (OHRC) has taken suo motto cognizance of media reports on black marketing of oxygen cylinders and life-saving medicines in the State.

"The Commission is shocked to know that oxygen cylinders and medicines are stated to be sold at a very higher price. Everybody knows that we are passing through an unprecedented situation and the people are lighting with life and death due to spread of COVID-19 pandemic," it said.

Meanwhile, the Commission has also sought reports from the State chief secretary and the additional chief secretary of health department. It also urged the concerned departments to take appropriate steps to prevent any kind of such black marketing and take appropriate action ...