Jahangir Lolabi
Kupwara, Apr 8 (GNS): Responding to the public complaints over application of unauthenticated rates’ by the local shopkeepers in Kupwara and Handwara markets on essential commodities, Assistant Director Food Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Kupwara Friday termed the rate lists in vogue as illegal and fake and subsequently ordered for ban on circulation of such lists.
“It has been observed during the market checking that illegal and fake rate lists have been circulated among the shopkeepers of Kupwara and Handwara including Kralpora and Lolab areas, issued by Traders Federation Kupwara and Handwara which is illegal and un-authenticated”, reads an order, a copy of which lies with GNS.
“In this connection it is impressed upon all the shopkeepers/traders of District Kupwara dealing with essential commodities like poultry, mutton, fruits & vegetables not to display/implement such illegal and un-authenticated rate lists issued by concerned traders’ federations”, the order reads.
“Moreover, he has asked all the shopkeepers/traders shall implement rate lists issued by the competent authority viz. Director Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs Kashmir & Assistant Director FCS&CA Kupwara”, the order reads.
“Any violation of in this regard shall be viewed seriously and action as warranted under relevant sections of law shall be taken against offenders for displaying of illegal rate lists and also against such Federations/Associations who are involved in this illegal/criminal act”, the order further reads.
Meanwhile when contacted, Assistant Director FCS&CA Kupwara told GNS that it was a sheer violation of set norms by the said Trade Federations. “The Department is mulling over to lodge a formal case in the matter”, the officer said.
Urging the general public to register their genuine grievances on 9419070997, the officer further said the identity of those giving reliable information will be kept discreet. (GNS)
