BIS cracks down on fake gold trade

Metro India News | HYDERABAD

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has intensified its crackdown on the sale of non-hallmarked and substandard gold jewellery across Telangana, exposing widespread violations by several jewellery traders. Special inspection teams conducted surprise raids in Hyderabad and other key districts, creating panic among jewellers found violating hallmarking norms.

Officials said that despite mandatory hallmarking rules, several traders were selling jewellery without BIS certification, misleading customers into believing they were purchasing genuine 22K (22K916) gold. During inspections, authorities seized large quantities of non-hallmarked ornaments and warned that such practices amount to cheating consumers.

BIS officials stressed that gold is a lifetime investment for many families, and selling uncertified jewellery not only erodes public trust but can also cause financial losses when customers try to resell or pledge their ornaments. They also flagged unfair trade practices involving excessive deductions under making and wastage charges.

Under the directions of BIS Hyderabad Branch Director P.V. Srikanth, enforcement teams have been instructed to strictly monitor compliance. Every gold ornament must carry the BIS logo, purity mark, and a six-digit Hallmark Unique Identification (HUID) number. Misuse of hallmarking, fake stamps, or sale of jewellery without HUID attracts penalties and imprisonment under the BIS Act, 2016.

Consumers have been advised to verify the BIS logo, purity mark, and HUID number before purchase, insist on a printed invoice mentioning the HUID, and report suspected violations through the BIS Care mobile app, which also allows buyers to verify the authenticity of jewellery.