MUZAFFARABAD: Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Prime Minister Raja Faisal Mumtaz Rathore has directed the administration to ensure strict enforcement of official price lists during Ramazan and to take indiscriminate action against profiteers and hoarders to provide tangible relief to the public.

Chairing a high-level meeting to review the price control mechanism and availability of essential commodities during the holy month, the prime minister said mere issuance of directives was not enough and that practical results must be visible on the ground.

Senior Member Board of Revenue Mohammad Zafar Khan, Principal Secretary Zafar Mahmood Khan, commissioners of all three divisions and deputy commissioners of all districts attended the meeting via video link.

Officials briefed the prime minister on rising inflation and the measures taken to curb profiteering and hoarding. He was informed that prices of food items, fruits, vegetables and other essential goods were being closely monitored, and that field inspections were being carried out to ensure compliance with officially notified rates.

The meeting was told that price control magistrates had been conducting inspections and taking action against violators, while steps had also been taken to prevent hoarding.

Mr Rathore directed the district administrations to intensify market monitoring and ensure that government instructions were implemented in letter and spirit. He emphatically said that all available resources should be utilised to facilitate citizens during Ramazan.

“No one should be allowed to exploit the sanctity of Ramazan for personal gain. The administration must ensure that citizens receive genuine relief and that government rates are implemented without exception,” he said.

It was decided that the price control system would be further strengthened and that daily performance reports would be submitted to ensure timely relief for consumers.

Published in Dawn, February 22nd, 2026