GJC Introduces Statewide Guidelines & Multilingual SOPs to Protect Jewellery Traders
The All India Gem and Jewellery Domestic Council (GJC) has launched a major industry-wide initiative across Maharashtra to safeguard jewellery traders by introducing structured guidelines and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). The framework is designed to ensure fair, transparent, and accountable policing practices during theft-related investigations.
The move follows the Government of Maharashtra’s circular dated March 14, 2024, and highlights GJC’s proactive efforts in converting regulatory directives into practical systems that can be effectively implemented across the trade.
GJC Leads Industry Implementation
As part of the rollout, GJC has taken responsibility for interpreting, organizing, and circulating the guidelines throughout the jewellery sector. To promote better understanding and adoption, the council has also released detailed instructions and SOPs in Marathi, English, and Hindi, helping jewellers across regions clearly understand their rights and obligations.
GJC is also working closely with trade associations and stakeholders to support smooth ground-level execution, further strengthening trust between law enforcement authorities and the jewellery community.
Major Highlights of the Guidelines
The new framework includes several important safeguards and procedural measures:
Mandatory Documentation of Police Visits
Police officers visiting jewellery establishments must note the purpose of their visit in the merchant register and sign the entry.
Jurisdictional Compliance
Cases extending beyond local jurisdiction must be routed through the appropriate vigilance channels before traders are approached.
Transparent Investigations
Relevant case information or copies of FIRs must be shared with the concerned trader.
Evidence-Based Action
Any arrests must be based solely on credible evidence, ensuring genuine traders are not harassed unnecessarily.
Reduced Business Disruption
Wherever possible, trader statements should be recorded at their business premises to minimize interruptions.
No Unnecessary Detention
Traders should not be asked to accompany police officials unless absolutely required.
Vigilance Committees to Monitor Implementation
The initiative also calls for the establishment of Vigilance Committees at the State, Commissionerate, and District levels to oversee implementation and address trader concerns.
- State-Level Committee: To function under the Director General of Police and meet once annually.
- District & Commissionerate Committees: To meet quarterly for regular review and monitoring.
These bodies will act as structured grievance redressal and oversight mechanisms to ensure consistency and accountability in enforcement.
Leadership Views
Rajesh Rokde, Chairman – GJC, said the initiative is an important milestone in protecting genuine jewellery traders. He noted that structured procedures, documentation, and monitoring systems will improve transparency and accountability while shielding traders from unnecessary harassment. He added that GJC’s focus has been to ensure effective understanding and implementation of these measures across the sector.
Avinash Gupta, Vice Chairman – GJC, said the introduction of multilingual SOPs and practical guidelines reflects a progressive and inclusive approach. He added that it gives jewellers greater clarity and confidence while encouraging constructive cooperation with law enforcement agencies, ultimately strengthening the overall ecosystem.
Boosting Industry Confidence
Through this initiative, GJC further reinforces its role as a bridge between the government and the trade by translating policy directives into actionable processes.
The rollout is expected to significantly boost confidence among jewellery traders while creating a more transparent, accountable, and business-friendly regulatory environment across Maharashtra.