Staff Report
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday directed strict action against those indulging in hoarding, profiteering, and overcharging during the holy month of Ramadaan-ul-Mubarak.
The Prime Minister was chairing a meeting here to review the availability of essential edible commodities during Ramadaan and look into steps to ensure the stability of prices. A free hand was given to the law enforcement agencies and district administration at the federal and provincial levels to deal with hoarders and profiteers.
PM Shehbaz ordered a clean-up operation at the shops, warehouses, and markets before Ramadaan.
The Prime Minister said those who would charge the people already facing economic hurdles due to floods more than the stipulated rates fixed by the respective administration should be dealt with iron hands.
PM Shehbaz gave the Federal Government and the chief ministers the task of ensuring the availability of essential goods and control of prices.
Elements, who would be causing difficulties for those fasting in Ramadaan, should be taught a lesson with the force of the law, PM Shehbaz ordered.
Supply of essential commodities in Ramadaan
He categorically stated that if any issue arose in the demand and supply of essential goods and prices, strict action would be taken against the concerned officer. He noted that there was no shortage of edible items, including wheat and sugar, anywhere in the country.
He inquired about the increase in the price of chicken when enough feed was readily available.
The prime minister reiterated that no leniency should be shown to those causing problems for the public during Ramadaan and said unscrupulous elements should be taken to task.
PM Shehbaz said that the profiteers who were burdening people with increases in prices should be dealt with strictly according to the law.
He said the quality of items at the Utility Stores should be ensured across the country. In the holy month of Ramadaan, mobile Utility Stores should be established to facilitate the people.
He directed that “Sasta Ramadaan Bazaars” should be established in the Federal Capital, Islamabad, and provinces, where modern technology should be used to keep prices under control.
