FCS&CA Deptt Under Public Scanner For Turning A Blind Eye To Soaring Prices On Eid Eve

Srinagar: The Food Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs Department of Jammu and Kashmir (FCS&CA) in Kashmir faces severe criticism as reports emerge of its failure to regulate market prices, leaving citizens at the mercy of unscrupulous shopkeepers who are charging exorbitant rates for essential goods.
Amidst the ongoing economic challenges gripping the region, residents are facing immense hardships due to skyrocketing prices of basic commodities. Despite assurances from authorities, the lack of effective enforcement mechanisms has resulted in unchecked inflation in the market. Unregulated prices of mutton and poultry have become a significant concern in Kashmir, prompting widespread worry among the local populace. The decision by the government to terminate price controls last year has resulted in skyrocketing prices, leaving consumers in a difficult situation without any oversight. Union Ministry’s notification last year instructed the Food Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs Department of Jammu and Kashmir to cease enforcing price controls, referencing orders under S.O. 145(E) dated February 15, 1990, effectively stripping the region of its authority to regulate mutton and chicken prices.
The populace is expressing frustration and anxiety over the sharp surge in mutton prices, which now hover between 700 to 750 rupees, posing a significant challenge to households. The absence of a regulatory body has exposed consumers to exploitation by retailers charging exorbitant rates. Officials at Director of Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Affairs, Kashmir said that before the implementation of the National Food Security Act (NFSA), their department had mechanisms in place to mitigate such price fluctuations. However, the current scenario leaves consumers at the mercy of market forces, with little recourse for relief, he said. “We are deeply concerned about the current situation.
The prices of essential items like rice, pulses, and vegetables have reached unprecedented levels. It is becoming increasingly difficult for ordinary citizens to afford even a basic meal,” said Arif Hussain, a local resident Both shopkeepers and vendors are taking advantage of the absence of stringent regulations to manipulate prices, exploiting the vulnerabilities of consumers already grappling with financial constraints. “The failure of the FSS&CA to regulate market checking has left us vulnerable to exploitation,” remarked Sana Malik, another resident. “The authorities must take urgent action to address this issue and protect the interests of the common people.” In response to mounting pressure, officials from the FCS&CA have promised to ramp up efforts to reign in errant traders and restore stability to the market. However, skepticism remains high among the populace, who have grown weary of empty assurances and lack of tangible solutions. “We cannot continue to endure this hardship while those responsible for ensuring our welfare remain ineffective,” voiced Muzaffar Ahmad, a frustrated consumer. “The government must prioritize the well-being of its citizens and take decisive action to curb price gouging and ensure food security for all.”
Earlier this week, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha chaired a high-level meeting to assess the readiness of concerned departments and agencies for the upcoming Eid, Navratras, and Baisakhi festivals. The meeting saw the presence of several key officials, including AtalDulloo, Chief Secretary; RR Swain, DGP; Vijay Kumar, ADGP, Armed, Law & Order; Anand Jain, ADGP Jammu; along with Administrative Secretaries, Divisional Commissioners, Deputy Commissioners, and senior officers from Civil and Police administration. During the meeting, the Lt Governor directed the Deputy Commissioners and Senior Superintendents of Police to personally visit prominent holy places and ensure all necessary measures are in place for the smooth conduct of the festival. He emphasized that all arrangements should adhere to the guidelines provided by the Election Commission of India. Lt Governor Sinha emphasized the need for adequate security arrangements, efficient traffic and crowd management, identification of parking spots, availability of essential items at notified rates, formation of teams for regular market inspections, uninterrupted water and power supply, provision of medical facilities, fire and emergency services, and arrangements for sanitation and cleanliness.