BIS team seizes laser machine used for marking fake hallmarks

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), Vijayawada Branch Office, conducted a search and seizure operation at One Town Gold Hallmarking Centre in Kurupam Market on Tuesday.

A team of BIS officials seized a laser marking machine allegedly being used to imprint counterfeit BIS hallmarks without valid recognition. The officials also seized a digital video recorder, a computer, and gold ornaments bearing fake hallmarks, indicating a violation of the compulsory hallmarking provisions under the BIS Act, 2016.

Scientist-E and Director & Head of BIS, Vijayawada Branch Office, Prem Sajani Patnala, said that action would be initiated under Section 29 of the BIS Act, 2016, for violation of Section 15(3).

She said the offence carries penalties including imprisonment of up to one year or a fine of not less than ₹1 lakh for the first contravention. The fine may extend up to five times the value of the goods involved in the violation.

The offence is cognisable and depending on the severity and recurrence, may also attract imprisonment, fine, or both, she sadded.

BIS team members Joint Director, B. Rajagopal, Deputy Director, D. Vivek Vardhan Reddy were present.