MUZAFFARABAD (Kashmir English): Today authorities, led by Assistant Commissioner Hamad Bashir and police, conducted a grand operation against illegal encroachments and price gouging in Muzaffarabad, arresting over two dozen individuals and fining shopkeepers Rs21,000 for violating price control regulations.
In a decisive move against illegal encroachments and profiteering, the Muzaffarabad Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) district administration and police launched a grand operation on Sunday, arresting over two dozen individuals and imposing fines on violators.
The operation received direction from Assistant Commissioner (AC) Rural Muzaffarabad Hamad Bashir together with Station House Officer (SHO) of Thana Saddar Syed Wajahat Kazmi and his police team. The authorities targeted two main objectives in these main locations by removing illegal constructions and enforcing price control regulations at Neelum Bridge, Tali Mandi, and Haidari Bazaar.
During the crackdown against price gouging in Muzaffarabad, multiple unauthorised structures and stalls occupying public spaces were removed. Additionally, 23 shopkeepers were arrested for violating the Price Control Act by overcharging customers. A total of Rs21,000 in fines was imposed on offenders found guilty of price manipulation.
AC Hamad Bashir stressed that the administration stands firm in its dedication to fair prices and effortless shopping for consumers during this Ramadan time. He invited all citizens to warn him about shopkeepers who increase their prices beyond official regulations because the government planned severe consequences for rule breakers.
“Our priority is to provide better facilities to consumers. Anyone found engaging in price gouging during Ramadan will face severe consequences,” stated AC Hamad Bashir.
The crackdown is part of the district administration’s broader effort to regulate market prices and ensure that essential commodities remain accessible to the public. Throughout Ramadan, the authorities plan to keep up these checks to stop traders from improperly exploiting their customers.
The residents support the government’s initiative because they recognize how the administration works to fight illegal intrusions and price manipulations. The population anticipates continued enforcement actions which will stop future market disturbances.
The Muzaffarabad administration maintains its commitment to market law enforcement as it requests citizens to report trade-related complaints for upholding fair practices.
