Sindh Cabinet Grants Special Powers to Control Prices of Essential Commodities

Karachi: The Sindh Cabinet has approved special measures to control the prices of essential food items, directing strict action against profiteering and hoarding ahead of Ramadan.

The decision was taken during a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, attended by provincial ministers, advisers, special assistants, and senior officials.

To strengthen price control enforcement, the cabinet granted Deputy Commissioners and Assistant Commissioners special magistrate powers under the relevant price control laws. The chief minister instructed Assistant Commissioners to remain active in the field and ensure strict implementation of official price lists.

“We will not tolerate inflation during Ramadan. The supply of essential commodities at government-fixed rates must be ensured at all costs,” the chief minister said.

The Chief Secretary informed the meeting that a crackdown against inflation during Ramadan is already underway. So far, 870 shops have been inspected and fines amounting to Rs2.4 million have been imposed.

The chief minister warned that hoarders and profiteers would be dealt with firmly, emphasizing that providing relief to the public during Ramadan is the government’s top priority. Immediate fines and legal action will be taken against those found artificially increasing prices.

The Sindh Cabinet also granted ex-post facto approval to strengthen the enforcement of the Price Control Act, reaffirming its commitment to ensuring strict compliance with official rates throughout the holy month.