In a significant crackdown on malpractices in agricultural markets, the Punjab State Agricultural Marketing Board has suspended the licences of three commission agents (arhtiyas) operating in Sangrur district. The action comes following serious allegations of misconduct during the ongoing wheat procurement season.
The suspended arhtiyas have been identified as Kulwinder Singh from Dirba grain market, Gurmeet Singh from Lehragaga market, and Jaswinder Singh from Andana grain market. All three were found violating established norms and procedures designed to protect farmers' interests.
What Led to the Suspension?
According to official sources, the arhtiyas were engaged in practices that directly compromised the welfare of local farmers. The specific violations include:
- Failure to make timely payments to farmers for their produce
- Charging unauthorized commissions and fees
- Manipulating weighing and quality assessment processes
- Violating multiple clauses of the Punjab Agricultural Produce Markets Act
Official Response and Investigation
Mandi Board officials have confirmed that a thorough investigation is underway. "The suspensions are immediate and will remain in effect until the completion of our inquiry," stated a senior board representative. "We have zero tolerance for any activities that exploit our farmers."
The action follows numerous complaints received from farmers during the current procurement season. The board has set up special monitoring cells across major grain markets to ensure compliance with regulations and prevent similar incidents.
Impact on Farmers and Local Markets
This decisive action sends a strong message to commission agents across Punjab's agricultural ecosystem. Farmers in Sangrur have welcomed the move, expressing hope that it will lead to more transparent and fair practices in grain markets.
The suspension period will allow the board to conduct a comprehensive review of the agents' operations while ensuring that farmers associated with these arhtiyas are redirected to authorized agents for their transactions.
This development highlights the ongoing efforts by Punjab authorities to clean up the agricultural marketing system and protect the rights of farmers who form the backbone of the state's economy.
