Sindh Government Takes Strict Action Against Restaurants Refusing Debit/Credit Card Payments

Karachi: The Sindh government has decided to take action against restaurants, shopping malls, coffee shops, and biryani centers that refuse to accept debit or credit card payments, following a surge in public complaints.
According to the Sindh Consumer Protection Authority under the Department of Bureau of Supply and Prices, several eateries in Karachi’s Clifton area—such as Karachi Broast, Frontier, Baithak, Nihari Inn, and Desi Dera—have been issued legal notices for violating consumer rights.
Director General Zahid Hussain Shar stated that the businesses are in violation of the Sindh Consumer Protection Act 2014, and the authority is initiating strict legal proceedings. He emphasized that across Karachi and the province, any business denying customers the option to pay via debit or credit card will face firm action.
The matter has been taken up under Section 23(4) of the Consumer Protection Act, and inquiries are underway to ensure relief for the consumers.
Assistant Director Mir Shahnawaz added that these establishments have been sternly directed to immediately rectify the violation. Restaurant owners, or their authorized representatives, are required to appear before the authority to respond to the notices.
Failure to comply will result in strict legal consequences. Shahnawaz reaffirmed that offering multiple payment options is a responsibility businesses must fulfill, and negligence in this regard will not be tolerated.