In the virtual meeting with Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, traders expressed displeasure over the government’s measures to impose restrictions in light of the COVID-19 situation in the state.
As traders in Maharashtra protested against the lockdown-like measures implemented by the state government, Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray called for an emergency meeting with the trader associations. Also present at the meeting were Rajesh Tope, Health Minister, Amit Deshmukh, Medical Education Minister, Chief Secretary Sitaram Kunte, Ashish Kumar Singh, Additional Secretary Chief Minister, Vikas Kharge, Chief Minister’s Chief Secretary, Dr Pradeep Vyas, Chief Secretary to Health Minister, Asim Kumar Gupta, Secretary Help and Rehabilitation, Abasahab Jarad, Secretary Chief Minister, Dr Shashank Joshi, of State Task Force and representatives of the traders’ body.
While talking to The Live Nagpur, after the meeting B C Bhartia, National President of CAIT said that all the trade leaders urged the Chief Minister to permit opening of the shops and offices. Bhartia said, “CAIT suggested that all offices and shops must be allowed to open. Give different slots of timing, area wise or working wise, so that there is no rush at a same time. But make sure that all the business establishments must be opened.†He added that Chief Minister Uddhav Thackrey was of the opinion that together we have to fight with Corona and not with each other.
“We want the coronavirus spread to come under control and are willing to cooperate for it, but the economy should also run,” said Jagannath Kale, President of the Aurangabad District Vyapari Mahasangh.
Dipen Agrawal, President of CAMIT said, “There is discontent among traders over the decision of shutting all shops except those selling essential commodities in the city. Its high time and traders are ruined due to the last years lock down. It will be difficult for them to survive, if the lockdown continues.” said Agrawal. He added that Chief Minister after patient listening to the trade leaders and representative has asked for two days time to come out with decision. “It was a favourable meeting, and we are expecting something in favor of traders,†Agrawal said.
Jitendra Shah, Vinesh Mehta, Lalit Gandhi, Mohan Gurnani and others. Chief Secretary Sitaram Kunte, made the introductory remark and threw light on the Covid-19 guidelines. Dr Joshi of Task force also spoke about the new stern.
