The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) Kashmir has filed a chargesheet against two individuals in connection with an alleged counterfeit fertiliser fraud involving the circulation of fake “Glo Potash” agricultural products in the Kashmir Valley. Investigators allege that the accused conspired to sell spurious agricultural products to orchardists and horticulturists in order to obtain wrongful financial gains.
Essential Commodity Violations and Counterfeit Supply Infusions
According to EOW Kashmir, the chargesheet has been filed before the Court of the Chief Judicial Magistrate, Sopore, following the completion of the investigation in FIR No. 33/2018. The case was registered under Sections 420 (cheating) and 120-B (criminal conspiracy) of the erstwhile Ranbir Penal Code, along with Section 3/7 of the Essential Commodities Act.
The accused have been identified as Shahbaz Ahmad Bhat and Kursheed Ahmad Mir. The investigating agency alleges that the two were involved in the distribution and sale of counterfeit agricultural products, causing losses to orchardists, horticulture stakeholders, and the company associated with the genuine product.
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Horticultural Input Audits and Spurious Brand Mapping
According to the EOW, the investigation was initiated following a complaint alleging the circulation of fake products marketed under the name “Glo Potash” in the Valley. Based on the evidence collected during the probe, investigators concluded that the alleged activities were carried out to secure unlawful financial benefits.
The agency further stated that counterfeit or adulterated agricultural inputs can result in significant economic losses for farmers and orchard owners by adversely affecting crop health, productivity, and quality. For this reason, such cases are viewed not only as economic offences but also as matters affecting public interest and agricultural welfare.
Public Alert Vectors and Dealer Authentication Regimes
EOW Kashmir has urged members of the public to remain vigilant against economic fraud and the sale of suspected counterfeit products. The agency advised individuals to report any information regarding fraudulent business practices or fake agricultural goods to the authorities and cooperate with ongoing investigations.
Agriculture experts note that farmers should purchase fertilisers and agricultural inputs only from authorised dealers and carefully verify packaging details, batch numbers, licences, and manufacturer information before making purchases. Counterfeit agricultural products can not only lead to financial losses but may also have a negative impact on crop output and quality.
The chargesheet has now been filed, and further proceedings will take place before the court. The allegations against the accused are based on the findings of the investigating agency. The determination of guilt or innocence will ultimately depend on the evidence presented and the outcome of judicial proceedings.
