All retail shops in Mumbai have been closed indefinitely since Monday over LBT, the new tax that replaces octroi. It is 19 days since a bandh was called by wholesalers. FAM said Friday it will continue the shutdown until LBT is removed, irrespective of the Supreme Court verdict. On Friday, the SC declined to stay the implementation of the levy.
It directed the Bombay high court to adjudicate the matter within four months. Mohan Gurnani, FAM president, said FAM would distribute essential commodities during the bandh. One such centre is apparently functional at APMC, Navi Mumbai.
Vinesh Mehta, treasurer, said trade markets have started running kitchens on humanitarian grounds to feed daily wage workers who are suffering owing to the closure. Gurnani warned that if LBT was not removed within seven days, the trading community would not vote for the ruling Congress in the upcoming general election.
He urged traders not to invite any minister for any social function or inauguration and appreciated those political parties who are backing the traders.
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