Jewellers Appeal to Delhi CEO for Ease of Movement of Precious Metals

A pan-India association of jewellers has requested to the Delhi’s chief electoral officer (CEO) to ensure ease of movement of gold and other precious metals across the city during transportation while the model code of conduct is in place. Delhi CEO Ranbir Singh on Monday said the association had met him and submitted a memorandum on this matter.

The Mumbai-based All India Gems and Jewellery Domestic Council (GJC) in its memorandum to the CEO has said the issue merits “some serious consideration” and detention or confiscation of goods be “immediately stopped” to encourage ease of business during transit.

“About three weeks ago, the representatives of the association met us and submitted a memorandum, and we will look into their issues. Our intent was only to stop an unauthorised movement of cash or other material, and not to harass anyone,” Singh said addressing the reporters here.

The letter states that the jewellery industry has been a “strong pillar” in the development of the nation and is an ancient heritage of the country.

“Harassment or detention during movement of goods will threaten the existence of this industry and will also impact the livelihood of one crore craftsmen and artisans that are dependent on it,” it said.

“We seek a place in future, and we seek nurturing to become more compliant and organised. It should, therefore, merit some serious consideration at the appropriate levels, and that the practice of detention or confiscation of goods is stopped on an immediate basis,” the letter said, adding ease of business during transit should be facilitated if proper documents are shown.

“Interception of personnel carrying jewellery by officials at railway stations, check posts, etc, has been a very common phenomenon. We, at GJC, have received many grievances from our members as regards the confiscation of jewellery by officials due to the code of conduct applicable for the Lok Sabha elections 2019,” it added.

The memorandum said even though the goods are being transported by the personnel carrying documents which are in accordance with the provisions of the GST Act, officials are handing over the consignment to the Income-Tax or GST department for further investigation.

Special Commissioner of Police (elections), Praveer Ranjan said cash or goods are confiscated only when it is unaccounted and proper documents are not furnished.

The general elections, to be conducted in seven phases, will begin on April 11. Delhi will vote on May 12.

Courtesy: PTI