Arhtiyas turn a blind eye to govt’s diktat

Jaswant Shetra

Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, October 14

Even though the state government has made it mandatory to weigh paddy with computerised scales at grain markets, commission agents could be openly seen flouting norms by using mechanical scales to weigh paddy produce.

Before paddy harvesting season, the state government had issued instructions regarding use of computerised scales at grain markets. The decision was taken to prevent fleecing of farmers as several commission agents were found weighing less paddy with mechanical scales.

During a visit at the Jagraon grain market, it was found that commission agents were using mechanical scales to weigh paddy. According to sources, majority of the commission agents at different grain markets have not purchased computerised scales so far.

“The government issued instructions a few days before the paddy harvesting season. It is not possible for commission agents to purchase computerised scales for weighing paddy at such a short notice. It will take some time to buy computerised scales,” said a commission agent on condition of anonymity.

The Market Committee and Punjab Mandi Board authorities said it was not possible for them to implement instructions of the state government related to computerised scales on such a small notice. Jagraon Market Committee secretary Jasmit Singh could not be contacted despite repeated attempts.