Authorities conducted a joint market inspection in Pampore to curb overpricing and ensure the sale of essentials at approved rates ahead of Ramadan.
Feb 23, Srinagar: In an effort to prevent profiteering and ensure the availability of essential commodities at government-approved rates during Ramadan, a joint market inspection drive was carried out across markets in Pampore on Sunday.
The drive was conducted under the direction of Deputy Commissioner Pulwama Basharat Qayoom. The joint enforcement team comprised officials from the Food Safety Department, Revenue Department, Municipal Committee Pampore and the Jammu and Kashmir Police.
The inspection team was led by Tehsildar Pampore Asif Ahmad Malik and included Food Safety Officer Pulwama Sadia Javid, Naib Tehsildar Pampore Iftakhar Ahmad, SHO Pampore Khalid Fayaz and other officials. The team inspected grocery shops, vegetable vendors and meat outlets to verify compliance with notified rate lists and quality standards and to check overcharging.
Officials said several violations were detected during the drive. Fines were imposed on shopkeepers found overcharging customers or failing to comply with regulations. Traders were directed to prominently display updated rate lists and sell essential commodities strictly at government-approved prices.
Authorities emphasized that Ramadan is a sacred month and urged traders to maintain fairness and social responsibility. They warned that overpricing, hoarding or unfair trade practices would invite strict legal action.
Speaking to reporters, the tehsildar reiterated the administration’s commitment to safeguarding consumer interests and said such inspection drives will continue throughout Ramadan to ensure market stability and price regulation.
