A shadow economy of price gouging and lawlessness has taken root in the vicinity of the revered Hazratbal shrine, with locals and pilgrims alike accusing a cartel of “anti-social” vendors of rampant exploitation.
Despite the sanctity of the location, citizens claim that the rule of law has been conspicuously absent, leaving devotees at the mercy of unscrupulous traders operating outside the government’s regulatory framework.
According to multiple complaints lodged by distressed consumers, the unauthorized market sprawling outside the shrine premises functions as a “lawless zone” where the concept of a government-mandated rate list is non-existent.
Vendors are allegedly charging exorbitant, sky-rocketing prices for basic fruits and vegetables, capitalizing on the captive audience of devotees who visit the shrine.
“The attitude here is the worst; it’s anti-human. There is no concept of a government writ,” said Ishfaq Ahmad, a frequent visitor to the shrine. “These vendors know we are here for religious purposes and are unlikely to argue, so they charge whatever they want. It is sheer loot.”
Accusations have also been leveled against law enforcement agencies, who locals allege have adopted a “preferred indifferent approach” toward the illegal vending and the subsequent fleecing of the public.
The absence of regulatory oversight has not only strained the pockets of common people but has also led to allegations of intimidation by these vendors against anyone who questions the arbitrary pricing.
The situation presents a significant challenge to the food safety department’s claims of maintaining order and consumer protection in one of the region’s most sensitive and frequented religious sites.
