Executive Councillor, LAHDC Kargil, Kacho Mohammad Feroz met with members of the Merchant Association Kargil on March 24 to deliberate on key issues concerning market regulation and fair trade practices.

During the meeting, representatives of the Merchant Association expressed concern over the disruption of market rates due to unauthorized mobile vendors and unregulated sale of goods from vehicles. Association President Mohd Yaseen stated that such practices are illegal and negatively impact the livelihoods of registered shopkeepers.

The Association also highlighted the issue of the non-issuance of “Form C” by the concerned department over the past few months and urged authorities to address the matter on priority.

Kacho Mohammad Feroz assured the members that their concerns would be taken up with the relevant authorities for prompt resolution. He directed the formation of an enforcement team to conduct regular market inspections and ensure compliance with established norms. He further emphasized that the Hill Council Kargil, in coordination with the district administration, will extend full support to the Merchant Association. At the same time, he stressed the need for proper regulation of vendors under the law and urged all stakeholders to maintain professionalism and accountability.

Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Kargil, Ghulam Mohammad, assured that joint efforts with enforcement agencies would be initiated to carry out regular patrolling and maintain checks and balances in the market. Addressing the “Form C” issue, he informed that the existing rule has been revised and a new draft is in its final stages, which will be implemented soon. He also stated that the matter would be taken up with banking institutions to explore possible exemptions related to “Form C” for loan and lending purposes.

The meeting was attended by ADC Kargil Ghulam Mohammad, Tehsildar Kargil Ayaz Ahmed, Assistant Director Food Samina Khatoon, STO Kargil Namgyal, Food Safety Officer Nayeem Ahmed, DySP Headquarters Kargil Anyatullah, and officials from the Labour & Wages Department, Municipal Committee, and RTO.