HARASSED DELHI TRADERS SEEKS RECOURSE OF AGITATION

The traders of Delhi are deeply agitated over several problems being confronted by them and as a result the trade association in all parts of Delhi have begun consolidating themselves. It will not be a surprise if in near future, the traders could be seen on roads as a part of their agitation. In this context the Confederation of All India Traders, Delhi Chapter has convened an important meeting of trade associations of Delhi on forthcoming 23rd July where the traders will set their future agenda of the agitation.

CAIT Delhi State President Shri Narendra Madaan and National Secretary Shri Ramesh Khanna said that traders in Delhi are up in arms against VAT Department of Delhi Government, DDA and all three Municipal Corporations of Delhi whereas on the other hand the beautification drama of Connaught Place has made them agitated against New Delhi Municipal Committee. The traders are facing numerous problems with every day new notifications of different departments and no one is there to hear their plight. Even to redress the smallest problem, the traders have to run from pillar to post and the problem remains unsolved. All such conditions have made them realised that agitation is the only course left with them to raise their voice.

Both Mr. Madaan and Mr. Khanna told that the VAT Department of Delhi Government is working in a new fashion where new notifications are being released to comply with which is almost impossible for an average trader. Even for obtaining refund from the Department, it is an uphill task as the Department has prescribed large formalities to comply with or else forget about refund resulting in capital of the traders remained deposited with the Department.

CAIT Delhi General Secretary Shri Vijay Pal said that seven years back the MCD has sent a list of 351 roads to Delhi Government for notification as Commercial or mixed land use street but till date the Delhi Government has failed to notify the roads. On the other hand in the name of parking and conversion charges all three MCDs have hanged a permanent sword on the hands of traders. Obtaining a Trade License from MCD has become a dream. Large number of shops in Delhi were wrongly sealed and inspite of best efforts till date no relief has been given to those traders. There is no mechanism in MCDs. The officials are experts in putting hurdles.

Under the Circumstances and on the great instances of trade associations of Delhi, the CAIT has convened a meeting on 23rd July to take stock of the situation and to decide future course of action including a vocal agitation.