Massive Crackdown on Weighbridge Irregularities in Rajasthan: 179 Outlets Penalized, ₹4 Lakh Fine Levied, 18 Seized

The Government of Rajasthan has taken a stringent stance to ensure fair trade practices and protect consumer interests across the state. Under the strict directives of Consumer Affairs Minister Sumit Godara, the Legal Metrology Department conducted a special intensive inspection drive targeting weighbridges (Dharmkantas) from June 23 to June 25. The department initiated stern action following the discovery of widespread irregularities.

311 Weighbridges Inspected, 179 Outlets Penalized

According to the departmental report, a total of 311 weighbridges underwent sudden inspections during the three-day state-wide campaign. Out of these, 179 establishments were found operating with various technical and procedural irregularities. A total fine of ₹3,99,500 was levied on the spot. Furthermore, 18 weighbridges were completely seized due to severe non-compliance and gross violations of standards.

Major Irregularities Detected During Inspections:

• 116 cases where weighbridges were being operated without mandatory official verification.
• 98 cases where operators failed to publicly display their verification certificates.
• 48 cases where standard weights were not officially verified.
• 27 establishments that lacked the mandatory 1-ton standard test weight.
• 2 cases where the scale readings exceeded the maximum permissible error limit, directly impacting the transparency and reliability of commercial transactions.

District-Wise Breakdown of Enforcement Actions

The enforcement data revealed varying degrees of compliance and penalties across different districts:

• Beawar: Highest penalty collected, totaling ₹34,500.
• Churu: Fines amounting to ₹30,000.
• Hanumangarh: Penalties worth ₹26,000.
• Alwar: Fines of ₹22,500 collected, along with the highest number of seizures (9 weighbridges).
• Ajmer: Penalties totaling ₹18,000.

Stern Warning Issued by the Department

The Legal Metrology Department emphasized that it is legally mandatory for all weighbridges used in commercial transactions to undergo timely verification, publicly display their verification certificates, and maintain the required standard weights.

The department has warned operators that any violation of these provisions will attract strict legal action under the Legal Metrology Act and its rules. Operators have been urged to update their equipment verification and comply fully with all statutory provisions. The department added that such surprise inspection drives will continue regularly to maintain transparency, fairness, and consumer trust in trade activities.

Conclusion: This major enforcement drive underscores the state government’s commitment to prioritizing market transparency and safeguarding consumer rights. By cracking down on weight manipulations and unverified systems, the administration is sending a clear message to commercial establishments to adhere strictly to state regulations.