Ramazan arrives each year with a message of mercy, self-discipline and compassion. It is a sacred month in which Muslims are reminded to control their desires, strengthen their faith and care for those less fortunate. Families gather for Sehri before dawn and break their fast together at Iftar with gratitude and humility.
Unfortunately, alongside the arrival of Ramazan comes a troubling trend: the sudden rise in prices of essential goods. Items such as flour, sugar, fruits and other necessities often become significantly more expensive, placing an additional burden on families already struggling with inflation. For many traders, Ramazan appears to become an opportunity for profit rather than a time of responsibility and compassion.
This practice directly contradicts the spirit of Ramazan. The poor, who fast throughout the day, should not have to face the added anxiety of whether they can afford a simple meal to break their fast. Instead of easing their hardship, unjustified price hikes deepen their difficulties and undermine the values this sacred month teaches.
Islam places great emphasis on fairness and honesty in trade. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught that a truthful and trustworthy merchant holds a position of honour. Ethical business practices, especially during Ramazan, are not only a moral duty but also a reflection of true faith.
If Ramazan is to retain its true meaning, traders must act with conscience and integrity, while authorities should ensure effective monitoring to prevent unjust price increases. Society must remember that faith without fairness loses its purpose. The true reward of Ramazan lies not in higher profits, but in higher principles.
Luckii Sartaj Gichki
Jusak, Balochistan
