The glitter of that gold ornament may cast a spell on the shopper. But, better be wary of the electronic weighing machine used by the jeweller.
Customers end up losing Rs. 30 to Rs. 90 per gram of gold, as faulty weighing machines are being used by some jewellery outlets. The machines show a variation of 10 mg to 30 mg less on the total quantity of gold purchased. The startling facts came to light after the Legal Metrology Department conducted raids across the State recently.
The teams led by Additional Director-General of Police and Controller S. Gopal Reddy raided jewellery outlets on Akshya Trithiya and booked as many as 136 cases, including 10 in Guntur and Vijayawada, against errant jewellers.
It was found that most jewellers were using faulty electronic weighing machines which showed a variation of over 30 gm if a customer purchased a gold ring weighing one tola. According to rules, jewellers should get weighing machines checked regularly licensed repairers. “Shopkeepers were selling ornaments without deducting the actual stone weight from the gold weight. These malpractices were causing losses to customers,” said Legal Metrology Assistant Controller (Flying Squad) K. Bhaskar.
The jewellers also did not mention the purity of gold in the purchase bills, Mr. Bhaskar said and added that cases under relevant Sections of the Legal Metrology Act were booked against those who were involved in fraud. “We suggest people be cautious while purchasing gold ornaments during the ongoing marriage season,” he said.
If customers notice any malpractices, they can alert the department by sending an email to clm@ap.nic.in or calling the helpline number 1860-425-3333.
