KARACHI: In a move aimed at strengthening consumer rights and promoting transparent transactions, the Sindh government has initiated a crackdown on restaurants, shopping malls, coffee shops, and biryani centers that fail to accept debit and credit card payments.
The Bureau of Supply Prices Department, in collaboration with the Sindh Consumer Protection Authority (SCPA), has issued formal notices to several prominent eateries in Clifton, including Karachi Broast, Frontier, Baithak, Nihari Inn, and Desi Dera. These establishments have been found in violation of the Sindh Consumer Protection Act, 2014, which mandates that businesses offer multiple payment options to consumers.
Director General of the Consumer Protection Authority, Zahid Hussain Shar, confirmed that legal proceedings have begun and warned that strict action will be taken against non-compliant businesses across the province. “This is about consumer convenience and rights. In today’s digital age, restricting payment methods is unacceptable, he said.
The crackdown comes in response to numerous public complaints regarding the lack of card payment options at popular food outlets and commercial centers. Consumers expressed frustration over being forced to pay in cash, despite the growing shift toward digital transactions.
Assistant Director Mir Shah Nawaz has directed the concerned businesses to stop this practice immediately and comply with legal requirements. Restaurant owners have been instructed to respond to the notices either in person or through authorized representatives at the Authoritys office.
The Sindh government emphasized that it is the legal responsibility of all businesses to provide diverse payment options to ensure customer convenience and financial transparency. DG Zahid Hussain Shar reiterated the governments commitment: The protection of consumer rights will not be compromised under any circumstances.
This decisive action is expected to push businesses towards modernization and provide much-needed relief to consumers who rely on cashless transactions.
