4 days ago
Hallmark and testing centre in Governorpeta found operating without valid recognitions
Officials of the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), Vijayawada, on Wednesday, conducted a search and seizure operation at Akshaya Hallmark and Testing Centre in Governorpeta, and found that the centre was operating without mandatory BIS recognition and valid hallmarking on gold ornaments, constituting a violation under Section 14 of the BIS Act, 2016.
During the search, BIS Joint Directors B. Rajgopal and K. Sai Kaushik found out that the firm was issuing hallmark symbols, such as '22K916', without a valid Hallmarking Unique Identification (HUID), which is a clear infringement of BIS norms.
Later, the officials seized a laser marking machine being used for unauthorised hallmarking activities. All seized items have been taken into BIS custody for further legal action.
Noting that unauthorised hallmarking centres will face severe consequences, including penalties and imprisonments, the BIS, Vijayawada, officials said jewellers and hallmarking centres should adhere to BIS regulations. Unauthorised hallmarking is a serious offence and will not be tolerated, the officials added.
Consumers have been requested to verify hallmark details, including the HUID number, on their gold purchases. This can be easily done through the BIS Care Mobile App.
BIS, Vijayawada, Head and Director Prem Sajani Patnala said that appropriate legal action will be initiated against the firm under Section 29 of the BIS Act, 2016, which provides imprisonment up to one year, or a fine not less than ₹1,00,000, which may extend up to five times the value of the goods involved, or both.
Consumers are encouraged to report instances of Standard mark misuse (use of ISI mark or hallmarking without HUID) to the BIS Vijayawada Branch Office. Complaints can also be submitted via the BIS Care Mobile App or through email at hvjbobis@
