JAMMU: Acting on the directions of the Controller, Legal Metrology J&K, the Deputy Controller, Legal Metrology (Enforcement), took prompt action following a complaint from parents about overcharging for school diaries supplied to students.
The investigation revealed that the diaries were being sold without the mandatory declarations required under the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules 2011, in violation of packaging and labelling norms. The non-compliance was traced to a prominent school involved in the sale.
A case was registered against the school management and a formal notice was issued. During proceedings, the management admitted the violation and assured the department that such practices would not recur.
Controller, Legal Metrology J&K, Rajinder Singh Tara stated, “Educational institutions must serve as examples of fairness and integrity, not profit at the expense of parents. The department will not tolerate any attempt to exploit parents through illegal pricing or non-compliance with packaging laws. We are committed to strict enforcement to protect consumer rights.”
The case was compounded at the departmental level, and a penalty of ₹1,00,000 was imposed and successfully recovered from the institution. The department has issued a stern warning to all educational institutions to comply strictly with legal provisions and avoid unfair trade practices. Schools are advised to ensure transparency and protect parents from exploitation.
The department reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding consumer rights and warned that future violations will attract strict legal action.
