Traders protest GST inspection in Phagwara

A GST inspection at a shop in the Phagwara market today triggered strong reactions from the trading community, leading to the shutdown of shops and protest against the government.

Shopkeepers and traders gathered in numbers, raising slogans and voicing anger over what they described as repeated and unjustified harassment by the authorities. The protesters claimed that these inspections were creating an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty in the market.

“We come to our workplace to earn a living. Why are department officials visiting again and again to harass us?” said one frustrated shopkeeper. Another trader added, “This is nothing short of harassment. We are not against rules, but the way these inspections are being conducted is unacceptable. The government is asking the department to conduct surveys.”

The protesters warned that their agitation could intensify if the government fails to address their concerns. “We will hold a meeting with the authorities soon. But if the government continues to trouble us under the name of inspections, we will escalate our protest,” they said.

Rajinder Beri comes in support of traders:

Former MLA of Jalandhar Central Rajinder Beri has criticised the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government, alleging that it is intentionally targeting traders. Beri condemned the recent GST raids conducted at Phagwara Gate Market, calling the action unacceptable.

He said while various governments have come and gone in Punjab, no previous administration has troubled the traders and shopkeepers the way the current AAP government is doing. “Traders are being unfairly pressured and disturbed under the guise of GST enforcement," Beri said.

Reaffirming his party’s stance, Beri said the Congress has always stood with traders and will continue to support them against any injustice.

Jalandhar