ICT admin holds three over price violations, urges citizens to report issues

APP
ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) administration took action against a major supermarket in the Shalimar area for charging customers more than the official prices and failing to cooperate with the DC counter system.

According to the spokesman of ICT administration here, three staff members were arrested and taken to the police station following the operation.

He said that the Assistant Commissioner (AC) Shalimar launched a surprise inspection at a large retail store after receiving complaints from customers about being overcharged.

During the visit, it was found that the mart was violating the official price list and not supporting the District Commissioner (DC) counter initiative, which is designed to keep a check on the quality and pricing of essential items.

Authorities confirmed that the mart’s staff was not displaying the approved price list and was selling items at rates higher than those notified by the district administration. Despite earlier instructions, the DC counter—set up to handle price and quality-related complaints—was either inactive or completely ignored by the mart’s management.

As a result, three employees were arrested on the spot and shifted to the local police station for further investigation. Officials said the arrests were made to set an example for other retailers and to send a message that violations of consumer rights would not be tolerated.

The DC counter is a mechanism established at various shops and markets to help customers register their complaints about overpriced or low-quality items. However, its effectiveness depends on the cooperation of retailers and active participation of the public.

In a public message issued after the action, AC Shalimar urged residents to remain vigilant and report any instances where shops are found charging more than the fixed prices or selling substandard products. Citizens have been asked to inform the district administration immediately if they notice any violations at DC counters or elsewhere in the market.

The district administration emphasized that ensuring fair pricing and product quality is only possible with the support of the community. They added that such inspection drives will continue across Islamabad and strict action will be taken against shops that fail to follow pricing rules.

The AC Shalimar’s office also reminded shopkeepers to keep updated price lists clearly visible at their counters and to maintain the proper functioning of DC counters, including assigning a staff member to handle consumer complaints efficiently.

Authorities have warned that failure to comply with the district administration’s directives may lead to legal action, including sealing of shops and arrests. They also encouraged the public to use official helplines and complaint systems to report issues instead of getting into direct confrontations with retailers.

This operation is part of a wider campaign launched by the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) administration to control profiteering and ensure the availability of essential items at government-approved prices.

The administration is also monitoring various sectors of the city for similar violations, with special teams formed to carry out inspections in markets, grocery stores, and departmental marts.