Archive · 20 Aug 2026
BIS Seizes Gold Jewellery With Fake Hallmark Markings in Kadapa
The Bureau of Indian Standards, or BIS, inspected a gold hallmarking centre in Kadapa.
Officials found gold jewellery without the required HUID numbers.
They said the jewellery also had markings that looked like official BIS marks.
The team seized 72.71 grams of jewellery, although one report rounded this to 72.7 grams.
Officials also took a laser machine, computer and pen drive.
They said the laser machine may have been used to make counterfeit hallmarks.
BIS said breaking the rules can lead to a fine or prison.
People can check a jewellery HUID using the BIS Care app and report suspected misuse.
The BIS Vijayawada Branch raided a hallmarking and assaying centre in Kadapa on August 19.
Officials seized 72.71 grams of gold jewellery, reported by one account as 72.7 grams.
The jewellery allegedly lacked mandatory HUID numbers and carried spurious BIS logos and fineness markings.
A laser marking machine, computer system and pen drive containing fake BIS markings were also seized.
BIS said legal action could follow under the BIS Act, 2016, including possible fines and imprisonment.
- Who
- The Bureau of Indian Standards’ Vijayawada Branch, led by director Prem Sajani Patnala, conducted the operation.
- What
- Officials searched a hallmarking and assaying centre and seized gold jewellery and equipment allegedly linked to counterfeit BIS markings.
- When
- August 19, identified in the reports as a Wednesday; the year was not stated.
- Where
- KNR Hallmarking and Assaying Centre on BKM Street in Kadapa, Andhra Pradesh.
- Why
- BIS said the jewellery lacked mandatory HUID numbers and carried spurious BIS and fineness markings, violating compulsory hallmarking provisions.
- Agency
- Bureau of Indian Standards, Vijayawada Branch
- Premises searched
- KNR Hallmarking and Assaying Centre, BKM Street, Kadapa
- Gold seized
- 72.71 grams; one report described the amount as 72.7 grams
- Alleged violations
- Missing HUID numbers and spurious BIS logo and fineness markings
- Other items seized
- A laser marking machine, computer system and pen drive containing fake BIS markings
- Possible penalties
- Under the BIS Act, 2016, a first contravention may attract up to one year’s imprisonment or a fine of at least Rs 1 lakh; the fine may extend to five times the value of the goods
