Traders defer LBT strike to cash in on Gudi Padwa

The Merchant Association is playing it safe with regard to its protest against Local Body Tax (LBT). Considering the multitude of customers likely to turn up at shops on the occasion of Gudi Padwa on April 11, traders say they will commence the strike from April 15.

Striking it rich: Ahead of the strike on April 15, traders have decided to hold a meet at Yash Lawn, Bibvewadi. File Pic.

Ahead of the protest, the association has organised a state-level council meet on April 12 at Yash Lawn, Bibvewadi. Traders from various cities where LBT is being implemented will gather.

"For the convenience of the people and to give time to them for buying essential commodities, we are going on strike from April 15," said Popatlal Oswal, president of the association.

Divisional commissioner Prabhakar Deshmukh has warned traders of strict action if they went on a strike. Commenting on this Ajit Sethiya, a member of the association, said, "After a few days the shops will be vacant. So there is no point in taking action against the shops. LBT is applicable for purchase of the material from outside the city. But till April 15 we are going to sell old stock, which was purchased till March. So LBT will not be applicable on that. The strike will continue till the state government accepts our demands."