Tarun Karthick
Campbell Bay, 11 November 2023
The Legal Metrology Wing of the Department of Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs intensified its efforts to protect consumers from unfair trade practices, conducting a special inspection drive in Port Blair on the early morning of November 2, 2023.
The Enforcement Team of the Department targeted street fish vendors engaged in door-to-door fish selling, suspecting the use of tampered and unverified weights with the intent to deceive the public.
During the surprise inspections at various locations, it was revealed that several street fish vendors were utilising iron weights of 1 kg and 500 g denominations that had been strategically machine-cut from the bottom. The alteration caused the weights to measure only around 750 g and 350 g, respectively. On the spot, the Enforcement Team seized the tampered weights and booked cases against seven street fish vendors involved in this deceptive practice.
The Department of Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs has issued a stern warning to all traders, especially fish vendors, urging them to use only duly verified and stamped weights. They are advised to refrain from any unfair practices that may exploit consumers. Stringent legal action will be initiated against those who fail to comply, in accordance with the provisions of the Legal Metrology Act, 2009.
Consumers in the Union Territory have been urged to remain vigilant and report any information about traders engaged in illegal trade practices to the Department of Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs. Reports can be submitted in writing or through the Toll-Free Number 18003453197.