Solan farmers accuse Kathed market agents of cheating, urge CM to step in
Photo used for indicative purpose only
Solan, Apr 16,
Fresh allegations of malpractice have surfaced at the Kathed vegetable market in Solan, with local farmers accusing certain arhtiyas (commission agents) of colluding with Agriculture Produce Market Committee (APMC) officials to exploit them.
Farmers claim that despite repeated complaints, no effective action has been taken against erring commission agents. They allege that arhtiyas routinely underweigh their produce and forcibly deduct 1–2 kg per 100 kg under the pretext of “kaat” (unauthorized deduction), leading to direct financial losses.
“This has become a routine exploitation. Even when we bring 100 kg of vegetables, they mark it as 98 or 99 kg, citing vague reasons. This deduction is illegal and unjust,” said Rajesh Thakur, a farmer from Shilli village.
According to the farmers, the practice is carried out openly and with impunity. They suspect active collusion between certain agents and APMC staff, who allegedly turn a blind eye to these irregularities.
Concerns have also been raised about the accuracy of weighing machines used by some agents, with allegations of tampering further deepening distrust in the system.
Notably, the Congress-led state government had earlier formed a special committee to monitor the vegetable market. The committee includes politically nominated members and representatives from across the district. However, farmers feel that the panel has failed to address their grievances meaningfully.
“The system appears to be rigged against us. We’re not receiving fair value for our produce, and all our efforts to seek redressal have been ignored,” said another local farmer.
Frustrated by the lack of response, the farmers have now appealed directly to the Chief Minister, seeking immediate intervention. They have demanded stringent action against the accused arhtiyas and complicit APMC officials to end the alleged exploitation and ensure fair market practices
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