Jablipora Fruit Market reiterates ban on hidden auctioning; violators face licence suspension

Ziraat Times News Desk

Srinagar, July 30: The Department of Horticulture (Planning & Marketing), Anantnag, has reiterated a strict ban on undercover or hidden auctioning of horticultural and agricultural produce at the Fruit and Vegetable Market, Jablipora, warning traders and commission agents of stringent action for violations.

In a circular issued by the Office of the Area Marketing Officer, Anantnag, the department said hidden auctioning of produce within the market premises remains strictly prohibited under an earlier departmental order issued on December 6, 2025.

The department said it had received reports through social media platforms and other reliable sources that some traders and commission agents were allegedly conducting or facilitating undercover auctioning in the market. It said such practices undermine the objective of maintaining a fair, transparent and competitive marketing system and violate the rules governing fruit and vegetable markets in Jammu & Kashmir.

“All traders, commission agents, buyers and other stakeholders are once again directed to strictly adhere to the open auction system in a fair, transparent and accountable manner,” the circular stated.

The department warned that any trader, commission agent, buyer or other person found conducting, facilitating or participating in hidden auctioning would face disciplinary action. The penalties include immediate suspension or cancellation of licences, imposition of heavy fines under applicable provisions, and any other action deemed appropriate by the competent authority.

Officials directed all stakeholders to comply with the instructions “in letter and spirit,” adding that no excuse or representation would be entertained in future cases of non-compliance.

The circular, issued by the Area Marketing Officer, Horticulture Planning and Marketing, Anantnag, has also been forwarded to the District Magistrate, Anantnag, Director of Horticulture Planning and Marketing, Deputy Director (Kashmir), and the President of the Fruit Association, Jablipora, among others, for information and necessary action.