Daijiworld Media Network - Kolar (SP)

Kolar, Jun 26: Some people have launched a hunt for old types of radio as well as black and white television sets based on the rumours that they fetch lacs of rupees in the market and certain websites are ready to offer high prices for them.

It is learnt that some people have been offering as high as Rs 20,000 to Rs 1 lac for old TV sets. Some shops involved with television repairs, who were surprised by the fact that many have been approaching them seeking to buy old TV sets, made enquiries and got to know about the rumours making the rounds.

This could well be the handiwork of a gang which perhaps wants to make money by spreading rumours. In the past, people were duped with things like rice pulling utensil, double-headed snakes, pitchers which turned lucky after lightning struck them etc.

There are some who say that old radio and TV sets contain red mercury which commands high price now. Kolar district superintendent of police Karthik Reddy has asked the people to inform the police if anyone approaches them seeking to acquire red mercury, as sale and purchase of red mercury is a punishable offence.