JAMMU: Agitating wine traders of Jammu today protested outside the Excise and Taxation Department at Bahu Plaza demanding revocation of newly introduced liquor policy. Raising allegations about the e-biding, they demanded justice for their businesses.
“It’s been 50-60 years since we have handled the liquor business in Jammu. What transparency is required now? This policy is totally against us. If there are any irregularities at our level, they should be checked. These bidders won’t ask for work if they were capable.” said a wine trader
“We are protesting since days and requesting to talk while the mafias are sitting in the offices. President of Chamber of Commerce Jammu, Arun Gupta led our deputation. We’ll were happy after the removal of article 370. That step was for development of J&K traders. Sabka saath sabka vikas was the aim but does vikas happen only with rich e-bidders?” added another
The traders claimed the Government to have ruined youth rights in Jammu. They also questioned the Lieutenant Governor about their futures.
“We managed the liquor businesses and paid every required revenue. Even in covid, we stakeholders put our lives in risk and helped the Country. Overnight, BJP government changed our future. Will they rehabilitate us? BJP has snatched youngsters’ rights. We request LG Sir to take the decision back.” the traders said
“UP, Punjab and many other states removed the bidding process and gave the rights to owners to end mafia rule. Does economy rise only by Mafias? They are behind all this. We don’t demand ban on more wine traders in J&K but developing new businesses by making old ones beg is injustice.” they added