Srinagar, Dec 6, KDC: The Directorate of Horticulture Planning and Marketing, Government of Jammu and Kashmir, has issued a strict circular prohibiting undercover auctioning of horticulture produce in Fruit and Vegetable Markets across the Union Territory, warning of legal action including cancellation of licences against violators.
In the circular issued, a copy which is in the possession of news agency Kashmir Dot Com (KDC), the department said it has received inputs through social media reports and field inspections that in some markets, auctioning of produce is being carried out in a covert manner by certain traders, which is a clear violation of the rules governing market operations.
The department reiterated that the purpose of establishing Fruit and Vegetable Markets across J&K is to ensure transparent and efficient marketing facilities for growers and traders, and that all transactions must take place through fair, open and accountable auction procedures.
“All stakeholders operating in the markets have been directed to immediately discontinue any form of undercover auctioning and strictly adhere to open auction practices,” the circular reads.
The department further warned that any individual, trader or commission agent found conducting or facilitating trade through covert means will face legal action, including immediate cancellation of licence and any other punishment as deemed appropriate under law.
The circular, issued by Director Horticulture Planning and Marketing Ghulam Jeelani Zargar, JKAS, has been circulated to concerned officers and fruit associations for strict compliance in letter and spirit. (KDC)
