Govt intensifies crackdown on unscrupulous carpet sellers, engaged in selling counterfeit products
STC NEWS DESK
SRINAGAR, FEBRUARY 04 (STC): Handicrafts and Handloom Department, Kashmir, has intensified its crackdown on unscrupulous carpet sellers, engaged in selling machine-made carpets from outside J&K as authentic Kashmiri handmade carpets. A government spokesperson said that several counterfeit products were confiscated and stern warnings were issued to errant dealers to ensure compliance with Quality Control standards.
This action follows recent reports in local dailies highlighting the influx of machine-made Turkish and Iranian carpets being sold under the guise of genuine Kashmiri hand-knotted carpets, said the spokesperson. “The enforcement wing of the Quality Control Division conducted a comprehensive inspection of several wholesale carpet dealers in Srinagar and this exercise shall continue,” he added.
During the inspection, the team discovered stocks of Turkish and Iranian carpets, some of which were unlabelled or partially labelled. Such practices mislead consumers about the origin and nature of the products, constituting a violation of fair-trade practices, he stated, adding that the dealers found in violation of the Tourist Trade and Quality Control Acts will be issued warnings and advised to ensure all products are properly labelled as per prescribed specifications. “This includes clearly distinguishing between the machine-made carpets and authentic Kashmir hand-knotted carpets,” he added.
The Handicrafts and Handloom Department has reiterated its commitment to maintaining transparency and safeguarding consumer interests. Regular inspections will continue to ensure compliance and protect the reputation of genuine Kashmiri handmade carpets, which are an integral part of the region’s rich cultural heritage.
“All stakeholders are urged to strictly adhere to the rules and regulations governing the industry. Any deviations or malpractices will be met with stringent actions to protect the interests of genuine artisans and preserve the authenticity of Kashmir’s heritage,” said the spokesperson. (STC)
