467 bags of rice seized in two locations

Authorities from the Vigilance and Enforcement Department, along with the Legal Metrology Department, conducted inspections at rice trading establishments in Visakhapatnam amid rising retail prices of fine rice.

During the inspections, officials seized approximately 450 bags of rice from Venkata Lakshmi Enterprises in Marripalem. The trader was allegedly selling rice bags without the manufacturer's name and address printed on the packaging. The seized stock included Sartix Rice (999 Gold Boiled Rice), Gokul Satake Premium Rice and Kissan Brand Jai Sriram Lachkari Rice. Each bag weighed 26 kg.

In a separate inspection at Manikanta Rice Traders in PM Palem, officials seized another 17 bags of Sundara Ratna Premium Sona Rice, each weighing 10 kg. Authorities reportedly found that the maximum retail price (MRP) and packing dates had been altered or obscured.

Legal action against rice traders

Officials also identified alleged packaging-label violations at Pradeep Traders and General Stores, which was selling Sartix Rice without the manufacturer's or packer's name and address on the bags.

A total of six cases were registered against the business establishments under various provisions of the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011. Five cases were compounded, with a total fine of ₹1.25 lakh.

Inspections to continue

Authorities have indicated that inspections will continue at retail and wholesale rice shops as well as storage locations to identify irregularities. Officials have also emphasised that rice brands must be sold in accordance with applicable government price norms.

The enforcement action comes amid concerns over rising retail prices of fine rice, with authorities focusing on pricing practices, packaging declarations and compliance with consumer protection rules.