Weights and measures scam exposed in Rajam town

In a shocking discovery, officials have found that a kilogram is being sold as just 700 grams in Rajam town, a widespread scam that is cheating consumers across the district. During a recent inspection by the Weights and Measures Department, 20 traders were caught with tampered scales.

This deception extends far beyond basic groceries, affecting a wide range of products including fruits, construction materials, and even fuel. The fraud, coupled with exorbitant prices and rampant adulteration, is causing significant financial hardship for the common person.

The article details how this widespread fraud is affecting multiple industries:

• Fuel: Many petrol stations are reportedly cheating customers by up to 100-200 milliliters per liter. Despite government mandates, daily price displays and quality tests are not being conducted.

• Construction: In the building sector, fraud is rampant in the sale of cement and iron. Some brokers are allegedly removing cement from bags and repackaging them, while iron is being sold by the piece instead of by weight.

• Cooking Gas: Gas agencies are accused of charging extra for delivery fees and supplying cylinders that are up to 2 kg short of the standard weight.

• Essentials & Food: From small grocery stores to large shopping malls, vendors are reportedly short-weighing products by as much as 200 grams per kilo. In rural weekly markets, outdated and unverified weighing stones are being used to deceive innocent customers.

Officials from the Weights and Measures Department are criticized for their limited, perfunctory inspections. They often only act on complaints and cite a shortage of staff as a reason for their inaction. This lack of consistent oversight allows traders to continue their fraudulent practices.

An official from the Weights and Measures Department stated that special attention is being given to this issue and urged citizens to file immediate complaints. They promised that inspections are being conducted across the district and action will be taken against those who do not comply with standards. However, the ongoing and widespread nature of the fraud suggests that a more robust and proactive approach is needed from the district administration.