Puri, Jun 1: In a shocking case of fraudulent business practices, the Puri police have arrested a vendor accused of selling under-weight Khaja to devotees near the Jagannath Temple.

The incident came to light after reports surfaced that buyers were being cheated out of 300 grams per kilogram of the traditional sweet.

The accused, Santosh Panda, was apprehended following complaints filed by citizens, including Prashant Jena from Khallikote, Ganjam. Authorities seized 16.5 kilograms of Khaja and a weight measurement machine from his possession.

The case has been registered at Singhadwara Police Station under Case No. 79 dated May 31. Legal proceedings have been initiated under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) 318(3), 318(4) and the Weights and Measures Act Sections 33, 34, 35.

Following the arrest, Puri Superintendent of Police (SP) issued a stern warning to all vendors selling Khaja and other food items in the vicinity. He urged shopkeepers to maintain ethical practices, ensuring proper weight and quality for customers.

The district administration has also stepped up enforcement measures, conducting raids across Puri’s non-vending zones, particularly near Bada Danda to remove unauthorized stalls.

The Puri SP assured that strict legal action would be taken against any vendor found engaging in fraudulent sales or violating trade regulations. Authorities will continue surveillance operations to uphold consumer rights and protect devotees visiting the temple premises.

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