BIS Seizes Over 800 Grams of Non-Hallmarked Gold in Chennai
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has taken swift action to uphold consumer protection in Chennai, seizing a substantial 803.99 grams of non-hallmarked gold jewellery during a recent enforcement operation. This crackdown occurred on September 1, 2026, at a jewellery shop located in Ambattur, where items lacked the necessary hallmarking for commercial sale.
The confiscated items comprised a variety of jewellery, including 175 mangalsutras (thalis) weighing 671.50 grams, 12 children’s bangles at 25.02 grams, 40 earrings totaling 86.14 grams, and 10 pendants weighing 21.33 grams. The BIS enforcement team discovered these articles in several designs and categories, all being offered for sale without the required hallmark that certifies their quality.
Ensuring Compliance with Standards
This operation was initiated under Section 28 of the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016, which empowers the BIS to enforce compliance with hallmarking regulations. The jewellery has been confiscated and will undergo detailed investigation and legal proceedings. Officials and staff from the BIS Chennai Branch, working in conjunction with local police, conducted the enforcement action to maintain high standards in consumer goods.
Commitment to Consumer Safety
Shri S. D. Dayanand, head of the BIS Chennai Branch Office, emphasized the vital role of market surveillance in protecting consumers. He highlighted that regular enforcement activities are conducted to ensure products meet mandatory BIS certification and hallmarking standards. This particular action is crucial in preventing the sale of substandard items and in preserving the integrity of the BIS Standard Mark and Hallmark.
Hallmarking serves as an official assurance of the purity and fineness of precious metal articles. Gold jewellery that carries a hallmark features the BIS logo, an indication of its quality, and a six-digit Hallmark Unique Identification (HUID) number. Consumers can verify the authenticity of hallmarked jewellery using the BIS CARE app, enhancing transparency in the jewellery market.
Legal Actions to Follow
Consequent to this seizure, appropriate legal proceedings are being initiated against those responsible for the non-compliance under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016. The BIS remains committed to safeguarding consumer rights and ensuring that only quality products reach the market.
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