IHC dismisses petition seeking setting up of food authority

Islamabad High Court has dismissed a writ petition seeking establishment of a national food authority to control price hike and shortage of basic commodities in the country. The Single Bench of Justice Mohammad Munir Paracha dismissed the writ petition filed by Manzoor Bhatti under Article 199 of the Constitution.
The petitioner appeared in person and pleaded that a national food authority comprising civil society members and media persons should be established to function under the Chief Justice of IHC. He said whereas, at local level relief committees should be constituted at village and mohalla levels which should provide immediate relief to poor people.
He provided newspapers clippings to vindicate his claim. Bhatti said that price spiral of basic commodities of life has worsened the conditions and made life difficult for the commoners. He said ninety eight percent of countrymen were leading miserable life while only two percent among the whole population were enjoying all kinds of perks and privileges. After hearing his arguments, Justice Mohammad Munir Paracha dismissed his plea. The petitioner had made Federation, Secretary Food and Agriculture and Secretary Industries and Production as respondents.