Rice Turns to Gold in Kegalle

Overpricing isn’t just for the high rollers — now even rice has gone premium.

The Kegalle Magistrate’s Court has fined two businesses a total of Rs. 600,000 after catching them selling rice above the government’s controlled price.

One private firm in Galigamuwa had to cough up Rs. 500,000, while a supermarket in Kegalle town lost Rs. 100,000.

The Consumer Affairs Authority says market inspections proved both outlets were inflating prices, a direct violation of the CAA Act. Officials are urging the public to call the 1977 hotline and expose more traders who think rice can be sold like gold.

The moral? Overpricing may fatten profits in the short run, but the courts are ready to cut it down to size.