Traders up in arms over hefty fines

Various traders' associations in Rawalpindi have rejected heavy fines imposed on 576 shopkeepers by the district administration in a single day based on tip-offs provided by the special branch of the police department.

According to sources, these fines were imposed for allegedly selling grocery items at inflated prices.

In response to the fines, shopkeepers have decided to stage a sit-in protest in front of the police stations. The Central Association of Traders has urged the deputy commissioner to seek information about the wholesale vendors responsible for increased prices for these items.

Shopkeepers and traders from various industries are requesting a 15% profit margin on each item. Notably, the wholesale price of sugar recently experienced a sudden increase in the open market.

However, the deputy commissioner has refused to withdraw the fines, stating that these actions are being carried out under the orders of the Punjab chief secretary, and the district administration is obligated to implement them.

The business leaders have been asked to engage with the chief secretary or the interim chief minister for resolution.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 26^th, 2023.