Due to a traders’ bandh called against the projected opening of 100 Reliance retail stores in Jammu, normal economic activity in the city have been disrupted, according to the company.
According to the Kashmir-based news agency Kashmir News Observer (KNO), Jammu is experiencing a complete closure. The Chamber of Commerce and Industry issued the call, which was backed by twenty-five trade and industry associations as well as many political parties.
The business community gathered at several markets and Chamber House, wearing black badges to protest “anti-trade” measures, shouting chants like “Jammu Ekta Zindabad.”
At their local markets, many groups of traders under various banners held a peaceful protest.
The demonstrators stated they are dealing with a wide range of difficulties that have arisen since the state’s special status was revoked, but the current trigger is news of Reliance Retail opening 100 outlets in Jammu.
The initiative, according to CCI Jammu’s Arun Gupta, is intended to put pressure on the UT administration to cease tormenting Jammu traders in some form.
“We urged everyone to participate in a peaceful bandh to protest chamber and commerce-related issues. We are grateful that the bandh has elicited such a strong response across the province, especially in places where we did not expect it,” said Arun Gupta.
Many political parties have expressed support for the Chamber Bandh, and I would respectfully request that they keep their protests to the issues presented by the traders,” Gupta added, implying that political parties should not relate trader issues to the loss of special status.
Jammu transporters also joined the rallies, claiming that it is not just for traders, but for all Jammu stakeholders.
In the midst of the continuing protests against the reportedly proposed opening of the Reliance retail store chain in Jammu, the business declared on Tuesday that notion of 100 stores being opened by us (in Jammu) is absolutely false.
In Jammu, we have yet to open any stores. In the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, we have a few distribution stations that are set up by our delivery partners to help small traders, according to a Reliance Retail spokeswoman.
The Reliance stated it has a long history of assisting small businesses and that it “remains strong in our commitment to working with small businesses.”
Previously, the JCCI claimed that businessmen in Jammu face the “highest degree of discrimination” as a result of the Union Territory government’s “directionless policies,” which included ending the age-old biannual Darbar move, new excise and Geology and Mining Department policies, proposed moves by big business houses like Reliance to open stores, and restrictions on banquet halls, among other things.
❤️ Support Independent Journalism
Your contribution keeps our reporting free, fearless, and accessible to everyone.
Or make a one-time donation
Secure via Razorpay • 12 monthly payments • Cancel anytime before next cycle
(We don't allow anyone to copy content. For Copyright or Use of Content related questions, visit here.)
The Chenab Times News Desk
