Fri Jul 18 08:10:38 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) conducted a raid on Sri Lakshmi Hallmarking Centre in Narsannapeta, Srikakulam district, seizing a fake laser marking machine used for HUID (Hallmark Unique Identification) and 1.072 kg of gold jewelry being sold without valid HUID. The illegal activity was linked to GNR Gold and Diamonds. A case has been registered under the BIS Act, 2016. The BIS urges consumers to verify HUID and other details on the BIS Care Mobile App.

**News Article:**

**BIS Raids Fake Hallmarking Center, Seizes Gold Jewellery in Srikakulam**

**Vijayawada, July 18, 2025:** The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has cracked down on fraudulent gold hallmarking practices, seizing a fake laser marking machine and over a kilogram of gold jewelry during a raid in Narsannapeta, Srikakulam district.

Acting on a complaint of fake Hallmark Unique Identification (HUID), a team led by BIS Joint Director T. Arjun raided Sri Lakshmi Hallmarking Centre on Thursday night. BIS officials discovered the hallmarking center was using a non-recognized laser marking machine to put HUIDs on gold jewelry.

“Our investigation revealed a connection between this illegal HUID activity and GNR Gold and Diamonds,” stated BIS Vijayawada Director Prem Sajani Patnala. “We immediately seized the gold ornaments from the jewelry shop.”

A total of 1.072 kg of gold jewelry being sold without valid HUIDs was confiscated.

A case has been registered under the BIS Act, 2016, which carries a penalty of up to one year imprisonment or a fine of no less than ₹1 lakh.

The BIS is urging consumers to be vigilant when purchasing gold jewelry. “Consumers are requested to verify BIS Logo, Purity and HUID on BIS Care Mobile App by entering HUID number when purchasing gold jewellery,” Ms. Prem Sajani advised. This will help protect them from purchasing non-compliant or potentially counterfeit gold.

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