The Nagpur Municipal Corporation’s Nuisance Detection Squad (NDS) sealed Bhavya Saree Sadan shop in Gandhibagh area after it was found violating COVID norms. Despites strict warnings the shop was operating from inside and when the squad reached 13 customers were inside the shop.
It is worth mentioning here that this is not the first such instance, many shops were earlier found operating from back door and were fined hefty charges.
After extension of lockdown till June1, majority of the shops of non-essential items has started operating. As extension of lockdown and necessity of means of survival, and requirement of customers has created a win win situation for both. Even sources said that such shops are having tie-up with the NMC NDS and they are operating with ease.
Even some of the shopkeepers are sending messages to their regular customers and calling them, this include majority of salon operators, tailors etc.
Majority of the shops/stores have their customers mobile number and such practice is common in Itwari, Gandhibagh, Mahal, Sakkardara, Hudkeshwar, Manewada.
Traders are seen sitting infront of their shops and calling customers, as soon the customers arrive, the shop shuter goes up and salesman inside handles the customers. Even mediators (dalal) are active and they are also supplying customers to the shop.
The news of one of the reputed showroom in Gandhibagh was operating with more then 100 customers inside. When some youth noticed the activity infront of the shop, reported the NDS and police.
However before the police arrived at the place, the shopkeepers had already removed the customers from the shop.
Sources said that the showroom belong to one of the resourceful person, and he is giving daily share to the administration.
On condition of anonymity one of the shopkeeper said, “My shop is the only means sources of income not only for my family, but also to the 8 people’s family directly attached with me. Even I have to pay shop rent, electricity bill and bank instalments. Somehow I manage to earn 30 to 40 per cent of daily incomeâ€.
For those who are obeying the laws, they are the real suffers.
The local administration must allow all shops to operate like the essential commodities shops, or a civil war like situation will very soon arise in the society. Now the lockdown has become unbearable for all, said Kakku Marwaha, President of Nagpur Truckers Unity.
