The Uttar Pradesh government on Thursday, 29 October 2026, escalated a statewide enforcement drive to protect consumers during the festive season, with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath personally issuing directives to tighten market oversight. The Metrology Department has deployed inspection teams across all districts to curb under-weighing, overcharging above MRP (Maximum Retail Price), and other trade irregularities ahead of Diwali, Govardhan Puja, Bhai Dooj and Chhath.

Campaign Timeline and Structure

The first phase of the campaign, launched on 26 October, runs through 31 October. A second phase of inspections follows from 2 November to 5 November, ensuring coverage through the peak of the festive shopping surge. On the orders of Controller of Legal Metrology Amandeep Duli, teams comprising Deputy Controllers, Assistant Controllers, Senior Inspectors and Inspectors have been deployed statewide, conducting both routine and surprise checks to prevent consumer exploitation.

Six Sectors Under the Scanner

Authorities have identified six high-demand sectors as priority targets. In sweets and gift packs, inspectors are checking whether sellers include container weight in the billed quantity — a common short-weighing practice — and verifying mandatory declarations on gift hampers. LPG cylinders, both domestic and commercial, are being tested for actual gas quantity.

Edible oils and ghee packets and tins are being examined for net quantity and marked price. Similar checks apply to atta, maida and suji packets and sacks. Jewellery establishments are being inspected for properly verified and sealed electronic scales and weighing instruments. Finally, paint shops are being checked for declared quantity and price on containers used for home decoration — a category that sees a sharp uptick during the pre-Diwali period.

What Officials Are Looking For

Inspection teams are scrutinising three core areas: the accuracy of weighing and measuring instruments, mandatory declarations on packaged goods, and compliance with quantity and price regulations. Establishments found in violation face action under relevant legal provisions. The government has not specified the penalties in the current communication, but Legal Metrology law allows for fines and prosecution.

Why This Drive Matters

Consumer complaints about short-weighing and above-MRP billing spike sharply during festive periods in Uttar Pradesh, India's most populous state with over 24 crore residents. The annual pattern of festive-season enforcement drives reflects a recurring gap between regulation and retail practice. This initiative, notably, covers a broader basket of goods — including LPG and paints — than conventional market checks, signalling an attempt to pre-empt rather than merely react. The state government said the campaign is aimed at ensuring fair trade practices, strengthening consumer trust and enabling residents to 'celebrate the festive season in an atmosphere of transparency and secure shopping.'