Maharashtra: Retailers unite, approach central govt for relief

Traders say that they are not able to carry the burden of expenses amid low revenue. Representation pic

Retailers and traders from Maharashtra have joined hands to form a collective and take the case of their lockdown woes to the central government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Traders United Forum of Maharashtra (TUFOM) has demanded compensation from the government in the form of concessions and discounts on taxes, loan EMIs and have asked for inclusion in MSMEs and SMEs to fill the gaps created by Covid-19-related curbs in their businesses.

In the past 15 months, amid the pandemic and frequent restrictions, most traders have suffered huge losses. Maharashtra extended its restrictions till June 27 and looking at the scenario, is likely to extend them further. Maharashtra traders say they are in dire need of the Centre's help. In addition, TUFOM claims that the central government's relief measures were never granted to traders as they are not recognised as MSMEs (Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises) and SMEs (Small and Medium Enterprises) despite being eligible.

Traders say there has been no relief for them even as they have been paying taxes, rent, bank EMIs, salaries and medical expenses of staff, etc. "Sources of revenue have become inaccessible and thus traders are not in a position to carry this burden. But we have cooperated with the government keeping health as a priority," said TUFOM member, Viren Shah of the FRTWA.

He continued, "Many of our traders engaged in selling essential goods are risking their lives despite no protection from government insurance schemes, like in the case of frontline workers. Thus, among other things, it is for the government to give us concessions and extra time on loan repayment and to pay the GST refunds on time."

While the letter mainly talks about concessions and rebates that can only be given by the central government and RBI, it has also mentioned that states are imposing strict local restrictions, which is restricting economic activities. "In such cases, no government can run away from their responsibilities to compensate for the ill effects of lockdowns and must grant appropriate reliefs to traders," stated the letter.