Legal Metrology Department intensifies market inspections ahead of Shri Amarnathji Yatra: Traders penalized for violations in Kathua

JAMMU: With the view to safeguard the interests of consumers, especially Shri Amarnath pilgrims, the Legal Metrology Department, under the directions of Controller Legal Metrology J&K Rajinder Singh Tara conducted a special enforcement drive ahead of the Shri Amarnathji Yatra. The rigorous inspections were carried out along the National Highway in Kathua district—a crucial transit zone for Yatris en route to the holy shrine.

The inspection drive, led by the Legal Metrology unit in Kathua, was aimed to ensure fair trade practices and strict compliance with the Legal Metrology Act, 2009. During the inspections, several traders were found violating various provisions of the Legal Metrology Act/rules and were accordingly booked by the area inspectors and penalties amounting to ₹1.40 lakh were imposed.

The department emphasized that traders must strictly use certified weighing instruments and cautioned against short-weight sales, particularly involving commodities like sweets, bakery items, snacks, beverages and pre-packaged food products which witness high consumer demand during the pilgrimage season and the department stressed the need for transparency.

In an official hand-out, the Department urged the consumers to remain vigilant and thoroughly inspect pre-packaged products for key labelling details such as the manufacturer or importer’s address, country of origin, net quantity and the Maximum Retail Price (MRP), inclusive of all taxes. As the proper labelling helps ensure transparency and provides consumers with accurate product information of pre-packaged commodities which in-turn discourages deceptive or fraudulent practices.

The Controller Legal Metrology J&K reiterated the department’s commitment in protecting the rights of consumers and maintaining ethical standards in market transactions, especially during the festive and pilgrimage season. He also encouraged consumers to report any instance of overcharging or short-weight sales or deceptive pre-packaging to the department for prompt action.