Naanbais strike against new rates enters third day in Gilgit

GILGIT: Traditional tandoor operators and owners in Gilgit kept their shops closed for the third consecutive day on Monday in protest against the new price list issued by the Gilgit-Baltistan (G-B) government.

The government had recently announced a reduction in the price of naan from Rs30 to Rs20 and roghani naan from Rs 50 to Rs 25, a move that has been strongly rejected by the naanbais association.

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The association has expressed its discontent, stating that the government’s decision was made without consulting the stakeholders. According to the naanbais, the administration’s new price list is unreasonable, especially amid the prevailing high inflation. They have declared that they will not accept any unilateral decisions imposed by the government.

A representative of the naanbais association highlighted the financial strain faced by tandoor owners, pointing out that the cost of wood has surged to Rs 1,200 per 40 kg, and flour now costs Rs 5,200 per 40 kg. At these prices, selling naan at Rs 20 is economically unfeasible for them. “Reducing the price of bread without taking the naanbai association into confidence is unfair. We are being forced to sell naan and roti at prices lower than the cost of production,” the representative said.

The naanbais have vowed to continue their strike until the new rates are reversed, asserting that their businesses have been severely impacted by the government’s decision. They said that while it is the government’s responsibility to provide relief to the public, it should not come at the cost of the naanbais’ livelihood.

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The ongoing strike has caused significant inconvenience to the residents of Gilgit. Many locals have voiced their frustration, urging the government to enforce its decision to reduce roti prices. “When the flour price goes up, the naanbais are quick to increase the price of roti. Now that the government has ordered a reduction, they are refusing to comply. This is unacceptable,” said Asif Khan, a resident of Danyore. He argued that the recent cut in flour prices should benefit the general public through reduced roti prices.

Hotel owners, hostellers, and travelers are among those most affected by the strike, as they heavily rely on naan and roti for their meals. With tandoors closed, they have been forced to depend solely on rice, adding to their woes.

Deputy Commissioner Gilgit Amir Azam, in an interview with HUM News English, urged the naanbais association to hold negotiations with the assistant commissioners. He assured that any injustices faced by the tandoor owners would be resolved. “It is the mandate of the ACs to set prices of commodities,” he said, adding that he had instructed the ACs to take action against anyone violating the new rates.

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Meanwhile, AC Danyore Muhammad Awais told HUM News English that talks were ongoing with the tandoor owners. “Hopefully, the issues will be resolved in a few days,” he added.