Srinagar: Batmaloo Market, once known as the heart of affordable shopping in Kashmir, is today witnessing not just heavy crowds — but heavy hearts. As the holy month of Ramadan begins, thousands of families rush to the market to purchase essential items for Sehri and Iftar. For years, people from every corner of the valley have trusted Batmaloo for its reasonable wholesale rates. But this time, the atmosphere feels different. Customers allege that the prices of essential food items have suddenly and sharply increased. Dates, fruits, vegetables, meat, and other daily necessities are reportedly being sold at rates much higher than usual. For many middle-class and poor families, managing household expenses during Ramadan is becoming a painful struggle. Shoppers are asking — who is responsible for this sudden price surge? Is it the shopkeepers taking advantage of increased demand, or is it the failure of the concerned authorities to regulate the market properly? Locals say Ramadan is a month of blessings, patience, and compassion — not a season for profiteering. They are demanding immediate action from the administration. The Food Safety Department and Market Checking Squads are being urged to conduct surprise inspections and ensure strict action against those exploiting the situation. The people of Srinagar appeal with emotion — let this holy month remain sacred. Let fairness prevail in the markets. Let no family feel burdened while preparing for Sehri and Iftar. Because Ramadan is about sharing, not squeezing.It is about mercy, not money.