Kozhikode restaurants raise food prices without displaying new rates, sparking customer complaints

Hotels and restaurants across Kozhikode have begun raising food prices on their own, without displaying the new rates or following prescribed pricing norms, sparking complaints from customers and local representatives.

The unilateral increases, attributed by some traders to a shortage of commercial liquefied gas cylinders and rising commodity costs, have created wide price disparities across the district, particularly near tourist spots, bus stands, hospitals and malls. Tea now sells for ₹10 per cup at some local vendors and over ₹15 at certain restaurants.

No checks, no boards

The price hikes came to light after customers openly challenged traders, many of whom had not updated their displayed price lists. Local mess houses and food cart operators have also been found charging higher amounts, allegedly because surprise inspections have stopped. "It is not just local customers, elected local body representatives are also aware of the illegal practice," says Sangeetha Muraleedharan, a Kudumbashree worker from Eranhipalam.

Hostel students report the price rise is especially noticeable in online food delivery services. An autorickshaw drivers' union leader says food traders have started putting up their own price boards, and authorities should verify whether such independent revisions are permitted under the rules.

Authorities stay silent

Complaints have also been raised against multiplexes for allegedly charging exorbitant rates in the name of providing air-conditioned space. Leaders of the District Consumer Protection Committee say the District Supply Office, which monitors price fluctuations, has remained silent and failed to act on public complaints. They add that the Corporation's move to hold discussions with the Hotel and Restaurant Owners Association is unlikely to have any impact.

"The District Collector should also intervene, as many complaints have surfaced over the price disparity," says T.K.A. Azeez, district president of the Consumer Protection Committee in Kozhikode. He adds a meeting of the Food Advisory Committee, pending for months, should be convened at the earliest to address public concerns.

Even after some Kozhikode Corporation councillors raised the issue for serious discussion at a recent council meeting, no action has been initiated.

Functionaries of the Hotel and Restaurant Owners Association say there is no unreasonable price hike at any establishment under their control, and they are ready to explain their position at any meeting convened by the authorities in the wake of consumers' protests.

Source: The Hindu