KVIC threatens legal action against firms selling fake Khadi PPE kits

NEW DELHI: The Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) is mulling legal action against companies selling allegedly fake khadi personal protective equipment (PPE) kits.

It has been learnt that the fake PPE kits are being sold under the impression of a Khadi product, which is totally incorrect and misleading, KVIC said in a statement on Monday, alleging that some businesses were ‘fraudulently’ using its registered trademark logo of ‘Khadi India’.

“So far we have not launched Khadi PPE kits in the market. Selling PPE kits fraudulently in the name of ‘Khadi India’ is illegal,"KVIC Chairman VK Saxena was quoted as saying in the statement.

"At the same time, they pose a grave risk to the safety of our doctors, diagnostic and paramedic staff who are dealing with cases of Corona disease on a routine basis,” Saxena said. KVIC was hence contemplating legal action against such companies.

At present, KVIC is only manufacturing and distributing specially designed Khadi face masks that conform to the highest safety standards.

KVIC is using double-twisted Khadi fabric for manufacturing of these masks as it helps retain 70% of the moisture content inside. “These masks are made of hand-spun and hand-woven Khadi fabric which is breathable, washable and biodegradable,” the statement said.