Shillong: Concerned about weak enforcement and long-standing complaints from the public, Legal Metrology Minister Sanbor Shullai has instructed his department to take immediate and serious action to stop cheating in markets across the state.
During a review meeting on Friday, Shullai said he was shocked to learn that inspectors have rarely gone out for field checks over the years, despite constant complaints from citizens in Shillong and other areas. He reminded inspectors that their primary responsibility is to protect consumers by ensuring fair trade practices.
“Inspectors should be sincere. They must go to the field and conduct checking at their level,” Shullai said, expressing disappointment over the lack of regular inspections.
The minister noted that since the Legal Metrology Department was formed, it has detected and penalised only a small number of cases. He said this is unacceptable given the volume of complaints received.
With only 13 inspectors working across the entire state, the department said there is an urgent need to appoint more staff to strengthen field inspections and enforcement.
The Legal Metrology Department enforces the Legal Metrology Act, 2009, which ensures that weights, measures, and quantities used in trade are correct. This helps customers get exactly what they pay for and ensures that businesses sell the right quantity. As part of its duties, the department conducts both regular and surprise inspections at markets, fair-price shops, kerosene depots, petrol pumps, gas agencies, and other places.
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Shullai also ordered the department to submit a complete report of all cases received so far within six days.
Officials at the meeting said that many people do not come forward with complaints and stressed the need to raise awareness among both traders and customers. They said the public should know that the department is active and ready to take action.
The minister urged citizens not to hesitate in reporting any irregularities and assured that strict action will be taken against anyone found cheating the public.
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