The Legal Metrology Unit in Samba recently carried out a detailed inspection drive under the instructions of Controller Legal Metrology, Anuradha Gupta. The primary goal of this operation was to ensure that all industrial products brought into Jammu and Kashmir from other states met the required labeling regulations. This initiative is crucial to maintaining transparency in the market and safeguarding consumer rights.
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Violation of Labeling Standards Discovered
During the inspection, the department uncovered a serious violation regarding the labeling of a pre-packaged lubricant product. The officials noticed that the product’s packaging did not properly declare the net quantity, which is a mandatory requirement under labeling laws. Upon further examination, it was found that a lubricant manufacturing company from Haryana had been supplying industrial products without providing essential labeling details. These details include the exact net content, unit sale price, and other mandatory information that should be present on every packaged commodity.
In some cases, the company had only mentioned approximate weights instead of precise values, making it impossible to verify the actual contents. Such misleading practices violate the Legal Metrology Act, 2009, as well as the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011. These laws are in place to protect consumers from unfair trade practices and ensure they get the right quantity of product for the price they pay.
Legal Action Taken and Fine Imposed
In response to the non-compliance, the Legal Metrology Department immediately took action by registering a case against the violating company and issuing a legal notice. After receiving the notice, the company admitted to the errors and requested a settlement under the provisions of the Legal Metrology Act. The law allows businesses to resolve such violations by paying a monetary fine instead of facing more severe penalties.
As a result, the case was settled, and the company was fined Rs 1 Lakh. Along with paying the penalty, the manufacturer gave a written assurance that all future packaging would strictly adhere to labeling regulations. The company committed to correctly declaring net contents and ensuring all other mandatory details appear on the product labels, preventing further violations in the future.
Significance of the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011
The Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011, are essential in protecting consumer interests and promoting fair trade practices. These rules require manufacturers, packers, importers, suppliers, and retailers to ensure that every packaged product carries accurate and complete labeling information. The details that must be included on all product packaging are:
- Exact Net Quantity: The precise weight, volume, or number of items contained in the package.
- Maximum Retail Price (MRP): The highest price at which the product can be sold to consumers.
- Unit Sale Price (USP): The cost per standard unit, such as per liter, per kilogram, or per piece.
- Manufacturer/Packer/Importer Details: The name and address of the company responsible for the product.
- Country of Origin: This is mandatory for imported products and helps consumers make informed purchasing decisions.
- Customer Care Information: Contact details, including the company’s name, address, phone number, and email, so consumers can raise concerns or complaints if needed.
These rules not only promote transparency but also help prevent consumers from being misled by incorrect or incomplete labeling.
Encouraging Consumer Awareness and Reporting of Violations
The Legal Metrology Department has urged consumers to be more aware when purchasing products. Shoppers should carefully examine product labels to ensure that all required details are clearly mentioned. If they come across misleading or incomplete labeling, they should report the issue to the Legal Metrology Department in Jammu and Kashmir.
By actively checking product labels and reporting discrepancies, consumers can contribute to a fair and honest marketplace. Ensuring proper labeling is not just the responsibility of regulatory authorities but also of buyers who should demand correct information before making a purchase. If a consumer suspects a violation, they can file a complaint with the department, which will then take appropriate action against the offending company.
