Are you being cheated? Odisha petrol pumps, jewellery shops under scanner for cheating in weights

Growing concerns over the use of fake weighing machines across Odisha prompted the State government on Thursday to initiate a statewide crackdown. From petrol pumps and gold jewellery outlets to meat and poultry shops, consumers are reportedly being cheated through tampered or inaccurate weighing systems.

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In response, Food Supplies & Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra has issued strict instructions to officials concerned to conduct intensive raids and take legal actions against violators.

The Minister especially stressed increased vigilance at jewellery shops, where even minor inaccuracies can lead to significant consumer loss.

To boost enforcement, the Minister announced that officers conducting the highest number of raids this year will be rewarded in the next fiscal year (FY 2026-27). He also assured that the State government will provide necessary support and fill vacant departmental posts to strengthen field operations.

The Minister's directives come amid a rising number of public complaints about fraudulent weighing practices and retail malpractices in the State.

“Officials concerned have been instructed to conduct raids on outlets wherever malpractice is taking place, and cheating in weights and measures is occurring, be it a jewellery shop, a petrol pump, or a gas filling station,” the Consumer Welfare Minister said.

“They (the Department officials) have also been directed to impose fines and register cases, in case required. Our government will adopt ‘zero-tolerance’ to corruption and will not support any kind of malpractices,” Minister Patra asserted.

“All the officials are prepared and will work sincerely. We will also reward the Department officials who will perform well during the coming financial year,” the Minister added.