B C Bhartia, the President of the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), has said that trade and industry should not to be impacted by the Election Code of Conduct presently in effect across the country.
In the business world, urban traders regularly send products to stores in different villages and tribal regions. They visit these places occasionally to collect their earnings. A significant sum of money is left with them. Likewise, traders who deal in gold, silver, and other items load up their vehicles with goods and travel from village to village, taking payment for the items they carry.
This practice enables traders to transport a considerable amount of cash and various business-related items, such as gold, silver, and jewelry. All of these are crucial for maintaining the smooth operation of the economy.
The wedding season is also about to begin. At such times the consumption of goods increases. Along with this, many people from rural areas come to the city with cash to make purchases. Under such conditions, it becomes essential for traders, businessmen and others in the market, to carry huge money with them while traveling.
During elections, B C Bhartia noted that the Election Commission consistently issues guidelines. He stressed that businessmen must carry cash, gold, silver jewelry, and other assets to sustain the economy, while also preventing any potential misuse of funds during the electoral process.
Therefore, B C Bhartia emphasized the importance of adhering to the code of conduct without impeding traders’ businesses. He suggested that if individuals carrying money or jewelry possess PAN cards and other relevant documents, authorities should record these details without confiscating their goods. Bhartia stressed that confiscation disrupts trade. Furthermore, he urged the Election Commission to verify whether legitimate businessmen are transporting money or jewelry without seizing their goods.