Essentials go not reachable for people on Eid

As Eid ul Fitr draws near, markets in Kashmir should be buzzing with joy and preparation for the festival. Unfortunately, for many families the excitement is being overshadowed by an all-too-familiar problem, the sudden and steep rise in the prices of essential items.
Vegetables and fruits have already become noticeably expensive in recent days. Now, butchers too have joined the trend, unilaterally raising the price of mutton. For ordinary households trying to prepare for Eid, these hikes are not just inconvenient, they are deeply distressing.
What makes the situation even more troubling is that this pattern seems to repeat every festive season in the Valley. Instead of easing the burden on people, some traders take advantage of increased demand to inflate prices. Hoarding and black marketing appear to thrive at a time when the community should be coming together in the spirit of generosity and compassion.
Ironically, in many other parts of the country, festivals often bring relief to consumers through discounts, special offers and sales. In Kashmir, however, the opposite seems to happen. As the celebrations approach, essential commodities suddenly become more expensive, leaving consumers feeling helpless.
Such behavior is disappointing and unfair. Festivals like Eid are meant to strengthen social bonds and bring happiness to families. Turning this sacred occasion into an opportunity for profiteering goes against the very values the festival represents.
There is also a growing concern about the lack of effective market regulation during such times. Authorities must ensure strict monitoring of prices, enforce official rate lists and take firm action against hoarders and black marketeers who exploit the public.
Festivals should be a time of relief and happiness, not financial strain. Fair pricing and responsible trading are essential if the true spirit of Eid is to be preserved for everyone.