ISLAMABAD, Mar 03 (APP):The district administration has intensified action in Ramazan relief markets across the federal capital, resulting in the arrest of 32 shopkeepers over violations of official price rules.
Officials said assistant commissioners carried out inspections in different Ramazan facilitation markets to enforce government-approved rates. These inspections were conducted after complaints and information provided by citizens.
During the checks, shopkeepers were found either without official rate lists or charging prices higher than those fixed by the government.
As a result, 32 shopkeepers were taken into custody and shifted to lock-ups for violating the rules. The district administration stated that such action would continue wherever non-compliance is found.
The Deputy Commissioner of Islamabad has directed all assistant commissioners to ensure action without discrimination in all markets. He stressed that no area or vendor should be treated differently and that rules must be applied equally across the city.
Speaking on the matter, Irfan Memon said that every possible step is being taken to ensure government relief reaches the public. He added that violations of official rates would not be tolerated under any circumstances. According to him, strict monitoring is necessary to protect consumers, especially during Ramazan when market demand increases.
The Deputy Commissioner also issued instructions to all assistant commissioners to pay special attention to the quality of food items being sold in Ramadan markets. He said that price control alone is not enough and that substandard or unsafe food would also invite action under the law.
Officials said inspection teams are checking the display of rate lists, weighing scales, and overall compliance with government instructions. They added that shopkeepers have been clearly informed about the rates and standards they must follow while operating in Ramazan relief markets.
The district administration has urged citizens to continue reporting overpricing, absence of rate lists, and quality issues. Officials said public cooperation plays a key role in effective enforcement and helps authorities take timely action.
The district administration reiterated that enforcement will remain in place until full compliance is achieved in all Ramazan facilitation markets of the capital.