Squashing the rumours of shortage of salt across the country, especially in Uttar Pradesh where people were seen thronging shops in sheer panic, the Centre has assured that there is no such deficit. “On an average, salt prices are ruling at Rs 14-15 per kg, same as last year’s level. There has been no increase in prices,” food minister Ram Vilas Paswan said. “Uncessary panic is being spread that salt is being sold at Rs 200 per kg. Those who have sold at Rs 200, the UP government should take action and arrest them,” Paswan said. "The department monitors the prices of 22 essential commodities on daily basis. As per the prices reported by centres from across the country, there has been no increase in price of salt whatsoever," Department of Food and Consumer Affairs said in a statement.Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal also took to Twitter to dispel the rumours. "Some people are spreading rumours that there is a shortage of sugar and salt. This is completely false. Anyone hoarding salt won't be spared," he tweeted. Manish Sisodia, the Delhi Deputy Chief Minister, also urged people of Delhi not to believe on the rumours.