IN a bold step the Competition Commission of Pakistan has fined PIA Rs 10 million for fleecing the Haj passengers last year. It has also been ordered that the extra money should be refunded to the Haj pilgrims. Is it not a crying shame that our national flag carrier could stoop so low, just to make a quick buck? It is quite shocking that the Haj fares were increased by a whooping 80 percent. To carry out the holy obligation, the poor pilgrims would have been left with no other option but to swallow the bitter pill. The CCP's duty is to ensure transparency. Basically, it has to see to it that no business entity has an unfair advantage. When firms like PIA, seeing the coast clear, indulge in unscrupulous dealings, it has to act. Concurrently, it is worrisome to learn that the existence of the CCP itself is now in jeopardy. That is possibly because it has been after cartels, business tycoons and big fish, unveiling their dirty deeds in public. The Competition Ordinance must be re-promulgated before November 28; otherwise, the body would cease to exist and its decisions would be considered null and void. Though President Zardari is authorised under the constitution to extend the Ordinance, it remains to be seen if he would do so. Reportedly, a number of business big shots and vested interests have all ganged up against the CCP. God forbid, if these forces succeed, corruption would have a field day. This is all the more alarming because in Pakistan there are no Consumer Protection Laws. In its absence, the consumers are at the mercy of the huge state entities and firms whose main motive is that of profiteering. The PIA, the cement cartel, the sugar and wheat mafia provide glaring examples. Good sense demands that the Commission must not only be allowed to function, it should also be strengthened. The need for a solid bulwark against foul play by cartels was never more pronounced.