As part of the rollout, GJC has developed and disseminated detailed SOPs in Marathi, Hindi, and English to improve accessibility and adoption across regions
Mumbai: The All India Gem and Jewellery Domestic Council (GJC) has introduced a State-wide framework of guidelines and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to safeguard jewellery traders across Maharashtra, with a focus on ensuring transparency and accountability during police investigations.
The initiative follows the Government of Maharashtra’s circular dated March 14, 2024, and marks a structured effort by GJC to translate regulatory directives into actionable processes for the trade.
As part of the rollout, GJC has developed and disseminated detailed SOPs in Marathi, Hindi, and English to improve accessibility and adoption across regions. The council is also working closely with trade bodies and stakeholders to facilitate on-ground implementation and build trust between jewellers and law enforcement agencies.
The framework introduces several safeguards, including mandatory recording of police visits in merchant registers, adherence to jurisdictional protocols, and sharing of relevant case details or FIR copies with traders. It also emphasises evidence-based enforcement, discourages unwarranted detention, and encourages recording of statements at business premises to minimize disruption.
A key component of the initiative is the establishment of vigilance committees at State, Commissionerate and district levels. While the State-level committee will function under the Director General of Police and meet annually, district and Commissionerate committees will convene quarterly to review implementation and address grievances.
Commenting on the initiative, Rajesh Rokde, Chairman, GJC, said, “This initiative marks a significant step towards safeguarding the interests of genuine jewellery traders. By ensuring structured procedures, documentation, and oversight mechanisms, the framework promotes transparency and accountability while protecting traders from unnecessary harassment. GJC’s role has been to ensure that these guidelines are effectively understood and implemented across the industry.”
Avinash Gupta, Vice Chairman, GJC, said the introduction of multilingual SOPs and practical guidelines reflects a progressive and inclusive approach. “This empowers jewellers with clarity and confidence while enabling constructive cooperation with law enforcement agencies. This will go a long way in strengthening the overall ecosystem,” Gupta stated.
Through this move, GJC reinforces its role as a bridge between the Government and the trade, aiming to enhance industry confidence and create a more transparent and business-friendly regulatory environment across Maharashtra.
Established over two decades ago, GJC is a national trade body representing the gem and jewellery sector, with a focus on policy advocacy, industry development and facilitating dialogue between stakeholders and authorities.
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