KU holds awareness programme on legal metrology, GST reforms, consumer protection

Srinagar, Oct 15: The Department of Law, University of Kashmir (KU), in collaboration with the Department of Legal Metrology, Kashmir Division, J&K, organised a Mega Awareness Programme on Legal Metrology, GST Revision, and Consumer Protection at the Main Campus.

The programme aimed to enhance understanding of legal metrology standards, disseminate knowledge about GST 2.0 revisions, promote compliance among traders, and empower consumers to seek redressal through informed legal awareness, said a press release.

The day-long event featured interactive sessions, expert lectures, and open discussions with officers from the Department of Legal Metrology, GST experts, legal professionals, and academicians.

Vice-Chancellor KU, Prof. Nilofer Khan, in her message, said that such initiatives serve as vital platforms for bridging academics with public policy.

"By promoting awareness on legal metrology, GST reforms, and consumer protection, we strengthen civic responsibility and also empower our students and citizens to make informed and ethical economic choices,” she said.

Saurabh Bhagat (IAS), Commissioner/Secretary to the Government, Department of Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, J&K, in his address, emphasised the importance of awareness regarding consumer rights and market regulations.

“In an evolving marketplace, consumer protection laws and GST reforms are essential for ensuring transparency, fair trade, and accountability. Awareness is the first step towards an empowered society,” he said.

Registrar KU, Prof. Naseer Iqbal, highlighted the role of academic institutions in bridging the gap between policy and public understanding through such collaborative initiatives. Owais Ahmad, Director, FCS&CA Kashmir, discussed the emerging challenges in the digital economy, including online payments, e-commerce transactions, and consumer redressal mechanisms.

Rajinder Singh Tara (JKAS), Controller, Legal Metrology, J&K, presented an overview of the department’s scope and regulatory functions, while Mr. Shabir Ahmad Mir, Assistant Controller, Legal Metrology, highlighted its role in implementing GST reforms and the key provisions of the Legal Metrology Act.

Earlier, Prof. Shahnaz, Dean and Head, School of Law, KU, in her welcome address, stressed on the importance of legal literacy in strengthening consumer protection and promoting responsible business practices.

The event proceedings were conducted by Dr. Yasir Abbas, faculty, Department of Law, KU, and the vote of thanks was presented by Tanweer Ahmad, Joint Controller, Legal Metrology, Kashmir.

The event was attended by various university officers, deans, heads of the departments, faculty members, law students, experts from consumer affairs, food supply department, district and state consumer disputes redressal commission, J&K, and members of trade and commerce.