Fake Sambalpuri Saree: Odisha urges Centre for strict implementation of GI Act

Bhubaneswar/ New Delhi: Expressing concern over replication of Sambalpuri saree designs affecting livelihood of traditional weavers, Odisha has now sought Centre’s intervention.

BJD’s Rajya Sabha member Prasanna Acharya has urged the Centre for the strict implementation of the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act in the larger interest of the weavers and traders in Odisha.

It is pertinent to mention here that such replicating of the Sambalpuri Saree design was first reported in 2017.

Bargarh Police had even registered a case against a Rajasthan-based garment manufacturer for allegedly replicating Sambalpuri saree designs and selling them.

“After agriculture, Odisha’s handicraft and handlooms is quite popular and this sector also provides huge employment opportunities. But now the Sambalpuri Saree design is being replicated by some traders outside the State. As lakhs of such fake Sambalpuri Sarees are now being sold in our State, the genuine traders, weavers are facing problems and incurring losses,” said Acharya.

Acharya further stated that the Sambalpuri Saree is protected under Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act. Some traders mostly in Erode and Pali in Gujarat are violating the norms and replicating the Sambalpuri design.

“I have urged the Central Government for strict enforcement of the GI Act. Besides, a request has also been made to restore the 10 % rebate for the weavers and artisanson handloom cloth which was withdrawn by the Government of India,” Acharya added.