The Galle Magistrate’s Court has imposed a fine of Rs. 500,000 on a welfare shop in Akmeemana after it was found guilty of selling imported Keeri Ponni rice above the government‑stipulated Maximum Retail Price (MRP).
According to the Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA), district investigation officers raided the establishment on July 17, uncovering that rice was being sold at Rs. 270 per kilogram, exceeding the gazetted MRP of Rs. 255 per kilogram.
Legal action was instituted under the provisions of the CAA Act, and when the case was taken up, the defendant pleaded guilty. The court subsequently imposed the fine on July 23.
The CAA has urged consumers to remain vigilant and report traders selling rice above the prescribed MRP. Complaints can be lodged via the hotline 1977. (Newswire/ AI image)