Observance of ‘Close Day’
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Sept 12: Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Jammu president Arun Gupta today called on Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary UT of J&K and discussed with him the implications of the recent order issued by the Labour Department regarding Mandatory observance of “Close Day” by shops/ business establishments.
While expressing concern over the mandatory close day practice Gupta apprised the Chief Secretary that this is not the right time to raise such issues especially when the election process has been started. This circular has created a sense of harassment among the business community.
Arun Gupta also briefed the Chief Secretary that Prime Minister has announced the working hours of business establishments 24×7 to give boost and fillip to the country’s economy. Moreover, by allowing FDI in retail sector in our country a new chapter has started where in the local malls are also allowed to open for all days of the week with no time limit.
He also pointed out that there is no check on the online trade which has already damaged the regular business in our UT and the working hours for online trade are 24×7.
During interaction Gupta also emphasized that UT of J&K is known for its pilgrims and tourist destination. The pilgrimage and tourism are the main source and backbone of our economy. By keeping the business establishments open on all days of the week, we serve the pilgrims and tourists visiting the city of temples. They buy prashad, eatables and goods of their choice/local importance to take with themselves as gift items. Besides this by keeping the business establishments open, we also contribute in generating revenue for state exchequer.
He also apprised the Chief Secretary that the wholesale markets are already observing the “Close Day” practice.
The Chief Secretary gave a positive response and said that he will talk to the Labour Commissioner to ensure that the business community would not face any difficulty in this regard.
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