So far government has attributed the spiralling prices to be the work of the syndicate of importers and wholesalers. Of late, however, the traders are also blaming “ the unrest in the Middle East" as yet another reason for the recent unprecedented hike in prices of certain commodities. While some increase in prices may be unavoidable due to a rise of prices globally against the backdrop of a rise in crude oil (gasolene) prices and related costs in imports, the current price index is undoubtedly out of all logical proportions and unrealistic.

To us it appears as though the inaction is deliberate. This spiralling of prices is certainly a vital issue of public interest facing the country today. Yet we fail to understand as to why no action is being taken against the known syndicate of importers who already stand identified as the main cause for the continual rise in prices? On the other hand, no action is also being taken against the wholesalers who jack up the prices at random at the retailers' level driven by sheer motive of profiteering.

It is our experience that once there is an increase in prices in the markets it never comes down, no matter what. The dishonest amongst the traders have long been manipulating the consumer markets in this country causing unprecedented suffering to the common man. A reversal of this debilitating state of affairs is long overdue.

The government should act swiftly, boldly and decisively to bring down this unbridled spiral of prices for the good of the common man and its own interest.