LEAs, local administrations given ‘free hand’ to control prices

Federal and provincial law enforcement agencies and district administrations will have “a free hand” in dealing with profiteers and hoarders during the month of Ramazan. The directive was issued by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif who chaired a meeting on Monday to review the availability and prices of essential food items during Ramazan. Removing all reins, the prime minister ordered “operation clean-up” at warehouses, shops and markets hoarding essential items before Ramazan. He said those charging exorbitant prices when people are already facing economic difficulties should be dealt with an iron hand. The prime minister tasked federal officials and provincial chief ministers with ensuring the availability of goods and control prices, APP added. He said in case of shortage and high prices, action would be taken against the officer concerned in the area. “There was no shortage of edible items, including wheat, anywhere in the country,” he noted.