Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has ordered strict action against wheat hoarders after a three-day grace period for stock declaration ended, signaling a firm stance against illegal accumulation amid ongoing floods.
During a high-level meeting, the chief minister instructed authorities to take legal action against those failing to declare their wheat stocks. She stressed that honest declarations would not face penalties, highlighting fairness in enforcement.
Maryam Nawaz expressed concern over attempts to create an artificial wheat shortage, warning that such practices would not be tolerated. She emphasized that protecting public interest and market stability remains a top priority for the provincial government.
In a decisive move, the Punjab CM removed the director general of the food department for failing to secure wheat stocks in Khanewal during floods. The local food controller and his staff were also suspended to ensure accountability.
To strengthen enforcement, the Punjab Enforcement and Regulatory Authority (PERA) has been tasked with regular inspections across the province. Authorities will monitor retail outlets, display government price lists, and take stern action against violators.
Meanwhile, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) Assembly criticized Punjab’s temporary restriction on wheat and flour movement, calling it unconstitutional. K-P lawmakers urged the free trade of essential commodities and voiced concerns over rising prices and shortages.
Punjab has pledged to supply 50,000 metric tons of flour monthly to K-P, while Maryam Nawaz reiterated the government’s commitment to crack down on illegal hoarding, ensuring steady wheat and flour prices throughout the province.