No uniformity in food prices as traders go their own way

Several hotels, restaurants and roadside canteens in Kozhikode have unilaterally hiked prices of various food items, citing shortage of commercial LPG cylinders and rising prices of essential commodities. The price disparity came to light after some customers openly challenged the move by traders, many of whom did not even list the revised rates on their price lists.

Local canteens and food cart operators were also found to be charging higher prices, allegedly due to a lack of surprise checks. Hostel students also say that the increase in prices is especially noticeable for online food delivery.

“It’s not just local customers, elected representatives of local bodies are also aware of the illegal practice. Even after some Kozhikode Corporation councilors raised the issue for serious discussion in a recent council meeting, no action was taken by the authorities,” says Sangeetha Muraleedharan, a Kudumbashree worker from Eranhipalam. They claim that traders who charge unfair prices have little regard for the rights of customers.

The president of the autorickshaw drivers’ union in Kozhikode city says local grocers have started displaying their own price boards. Authorities should check whether traders can independently revise prices without following prescribed rules, he adds.

The price disparity is especially noticeable near important tourist spots, bus stops, hospitals, streets and shopping centers. Tea prices also vary widely, with some local vendors charging ₹10 per cup, while some restaurants charge more than ₹15, for various reasons. Complaints have also been leveled against multiplexes for allegedly charging exorbitant rates in the name of providing air-conditioned premises.

Officials of the district consumer protection committee say the district supply office, which is responsible for monitoring price fluctuations, has remained silent and failed to respond to public complaints. He says 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 step in as there have been many complaints about price differences,” says TKA Azeez, district president of the Kozhikode Consumer Protection Committee. He adds that a meeting of the Food Advisory Committee, which has been pending for months, should be convened as soon as possible to address public concerns.

Meanwhile, officials of the Association of Hotel and Restaurant Owners say there is no unreasonable price increase at any of the businesses under their control. They add that they are ready to explain their position at any meeting called by the authorities following consumer protests.

Published – 03 Sep 2026 01:25 IST