Hyderabad: Suspected fraudsters selling fake pesticide fled in a car after farmers demanded a bill in Kadavergu village of Siddipet district on Sunday. The incident raised concerns over the unchecked sale of unverified agricultural chemicals in rural markets during the ongoing farming season.
According to locals, two men arrived in a car without a number plate and began selling insecticides at below-market rates near the village junction. With paddy transplantation, cotton, and vegetable crops underway, several farmers sought to buy pesticides. When some asked for a bill, the sellers immediately started their vehicle and fled the spot.
Villagers believe the suspects were selling counterfeit pesticide to exploit seasonal demand. “How can they sell at such low prices unless the product is spurious?” a farmer questioned. Eyewitnesses said the pesticides had no brand labelling or verifiable source.
Local farmers urged the agriculture department to crack down on such illegal sales and prevent the spread of potentially harmful counterfeit products. Authorities have yet to respond.