A team from the Department of Legal Metrology, Sadar conducted a surprise inspection at Basundhara Jewellers on Wednesday following formal complaints from consumers regarding alleged discrepancies in the weight of gold ornaments. The raid took place in Agartala and has raised concerns about compliance and consumer protection in the jewellery trade.
During the raid, officials discovered that three electronic weighing machines used for measuring gold, silver, and other ornaments had exceeded their validity period by more than a year. As per regulations, such devices must be periodically verified and certified by the authorities to ensure accuracy and fairness in commercial transactions. The machines in question lacked updated verification stamps and proper documentation.
Acting promptly, the Legal Metrology team seized the machines to prevent further use. Officials stated that the raid was initiated based on specific complaints lodged by customers who suspected irregularities in the measurement of jewellery purchases. “We received formal complaints, and a team from the State Weights and Measures Department carried out a sudden inspection to verify the claims,” an official told reporters.
The department has instructed the management of the jewellery shop to immediately arrange for proper verification of all measuring instruments. Authorities have set a strict deadline, warning that failure to comply with the rules could result in legal action, including penalties or further enforcement measures.
The incident assumes greater significance as it coincides with the ongoing Akshaya Tritiya festivities, a period when jewellery stores witness a surge in customer footfall due to auspicious buying and promotional offers. With large numbers of consumers making purchases during this time, ensuring accurate measurements and transparency becomes even more critical.
Officials reiterated their commitment to safeguarding consumer rights and maintaining fair trade practices, adding that similar inspections may be carried out at other establishments to prevent malpractice and uphold trust in the market.
