New Delhi, Aug 28: Government has taken a serious note of consumer food articles sold being underweight and a nationwide campaign has been initiated to take stringent action against those flouting the law. Enforcement officials of all states and Union territories have also been directed to initiate a special drive to ensure consumers are not charged above maximum retail price for packaged goods like soft drinks and bottled water.
"Selling of underweight packs of commonly used consumer food articles is increasing with each passing day. Enforcement officials have been asked to take stern action against those found to be indulging in this disgusting malpractice," Consumer Affairs Minister Sharad Yadav told.
He said another malpractice relates to the Packaged Commodities Rules 1977 under which all commodities in pre-packed form shall be sold at or below MRP declared on the package.
However, many items including bottled water and soft drinks are being sold at prices much higher than the MRP in hotels and restaurants which is anti-consumer and illegal.
National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, earlier this year, admitted a petition for hearing against leading multinational nestle for allegedly selling underweight coffee packs.
Yadav said cases have been brought to his ministry's notice of one litre pack of ghee and refined oil being actually as low as 800 grams. Situation is not better in respect of packets containing everyday items like rice, dal, wheat and flour, he added.
Bureau Report