In Punjab, prices of many essential items are notified by the district administration, and teams led by price control magistrates inspect shops, bakeries, meat and milk shops, restaurants and others. The law currently used is the Punjab Price Control of Essential Commodities law (first an Ordinance, then a Bill passed by the Provincial Assembly on 10 June 2024).
What the notice usually means
A price control notice or challan normally says one or more of these:
- You charged more than the official (notified) price.
- The official rate list was not displayed where customers can see it.
- Goods were hoarded or not sold to customers.
- Weights or quality did not match what was sold.
It may impose a fine on the spot, ask you to appear before the magistrate, or warn of further action such as sealing or a criminal case.
What to do — step by step
- Read it carefully. Note the date, the officer’s name and designation, what you are accused of, and any date to appear or pay.
- Display the current official rate list today in a visible place, and update your prices to the notified rates. This does not cancel the notice but prevents repeat violations.
- Keep your records. Purchase invoices, the rate list in force on that day, and receipts help show what you paid and charged.
- Do not ignore a date to appear. If you are told to appear, go on time (or send an authorised person/advocate where allowed) with your documents.
- If you paid a fine, keep the official receipt. Pay only through the official method stated on the challan.
- If you dispute it, get advice quickly. Ask which provision the action was taken under and whether, and within how long, it can be challenged — the right forum and time limit depend on the order.
Possible consequences
The law provides for fines and, for some offences, imprisonment. Repeat violations are treated more strictly. Exact penalties depend on the section applied — check the notice.
Conditions and exceptions
- This guide is for Punjab. Other provinces have their own price control laws and authorities.
- Only items that are notified under the law have official prices; the notification for your district and date matters.
- Food safety (Punjab Food Authority) and weights-and-measures inspections are separate regimes with their own notices.
Need help with your notice? Send it to the Justify.pk Compliance Help Desk — we explain it in simple words and tell you any fee before work starts.