Srinagar, Mar 21: In a bid to curb unfair trade practices during the holy month of Ramazan, the Legal Metrology Department in J&K has intensified market inspections across the UT, imposing fines worth Rs 21 lakh on traders violating legal norms. The department has been conducting daily checks on essential commodities such as bakery items, LPG, dates, flour, tea, poultry, meat and milk to ensure compliance with regulations.
Anuradha Gupta, Controller of Legal Metrology J&K, emphasised the department’s commitment to protecting consumer rights, especially during the holy month. “We are conducting regular inspections to prevent any exploitation of consumers. Our teams are working on the ground to ensure traders comply with legal metrology standards,” she stated.
During one of the inspections, an LPG gas agency was found delivering underweight cylinders, each weighing half a kilogram less than the standard. A case has been registered against both the agency and its suppliers for failing to meet legal requirements. Additionally, several traders were booked for selling products without mandatory details.
Officials also found some traders using faulty weighing scales and charging above the listed MRP. “We have seen cases where traders took advantage of increased demand during Ramazan. We are taking strict action to ensure fairness in the marketplace,” Gupta added.
According to the Legal Metrology Act 2009, packaged commodities missing essential details like net weight, manufacturing date, and customer care information are liable for seizure under Section 15. Gupta stressed that traders must follow these regulations to maintain market transparency and fair pricing.
“Traders have a responsibility to provide accurate and complete product information. Missing details can mislead consumers and create room for unfair pricing. We are taking strict action against such violations to ensure accountability,” she said.
To reinforce compliance, the department has instructed traders to maintain proper records and display accurate product information.
Market inspections are being carried out daily, with field officers submitting regular reports on compliance levels. The department has also been educating traders about their legal obligations through awareness initiatives. “We have organized multiple awareness camps to inform traders about the importance of using accurate weights and measures and ensuring that packaged products carry all necessary details,” Gupta said.
