Punjab CM vows 'strict and indiscriminate action' against price hikes,hoarding during Ramazan

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif on Sunday said that “strict and indiscriminate action” would be taken against those hoarding or increasing the prices of items during the holy month of Ramazan.

According to the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco), the first day of Ramazan is “likely to fall” on February 19, 2026. However, the final announcement regarding the start of the Islamic holy month will be made by the Ruet-i-Hilal Committee, the only competent authority, after taking into account the credible witness testimonies from across the country.

“Taking advantage of the citizens in this holy month will not be allowed under any circumstances,” the provincial chief executive wrote on X.

She further said that the instructions and actions will be discussed in a meeting that will be held tomorrow morning (Monday).

The Punjab Food Safety and Consumer Protection department (FS&CP), earlier this week, directed the Punjab Enforcement and Regulatory Authority (Pera) force to make sure that essential food items are available at the officially notified prices in Punjab during Ramazan.

In a departmental meeting on Monday, as the chairperson, FS&CP Special Assistant Salma Butt said that the department has made all necessary arrangements before the advent of Ramazan.

She further said that the Pera force should take strict legal action against those who are found to be involved in this practice of overcharging.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also announced a Ramazan Relief Package worth Rs38 billion a day earlier, which will be given to deserving people in the four provinces, as well as the people of Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

“Rs38bn will be given to 12.1 million families through digital bank accounts without any discrimination,” said the premier while addressing the ceremony of the PM Ramazan Package 2026.