Karnataka Upalokayukta warns APMC: No forced commissions for farmers
Karnataka Upalokayukta Justice B. Veerappa conducted a surprise inspection of the Agriculture Produce Marketing Committee (APMC) market in Hosapete on Saturday, directing authorities to ensure that farmers are not compelled to pay commission to middlemen. He ordered the immediate installation of signboards declaring that collecting commission from farmers is illegal.
During the inspection, several farmers complained about officials and intermediaries illegally charging them commission. Responding to the grievances, Justice Veerappa instructed farmers not to pay commission under any circumstances and directed APMC authorities to display boards prominently informing that charging commission is prohibited by law.
To prevent cheating in weighing of produce, the Upalokayukta personally checked a weighing machine by standing on it to verify its accuracy. He also examined whether the equipment had been periodically calibrated and certified according to government regulations.
Justice Veerappa expressed displeasure over the poor maintenance of drinking water facilities at the market and pulled up officials for negligence. He directed them to rectify deficiencies immediately and provide proper drinking water for farmers and the public.
Noting that farmers often arrive at the APMC market during the night and need a place to rest, he instructed municipal authorities to grant permission for construction of a shelter on the market premises at the earliest.
The Upalokayukta later inspected the city bus stand, visiting the luggage room, toilets, waiting hall and commercial establishments. Examining sweets and other food items sold in shops, he warned traders against charging above the maximum retail price (MRP) and directed them not to sell expired food products.
During the inspection, students of Vijayanagara College complained about lack of timely city bus services to their institution. Taking note, Justice Veerappa instructed Transport Department officials to immediately introduce city bus services on the Vijayanagara College route.
Lokayukta Deputy Registrar Aravind, sub-divisional officer Vivekananda, District Urban Development Cell Project Director Manohar, Municipal Commissioner Eragudi Shivakumar, tahsildar Shruti M., and officials from various departments were present during the inspection.
