The Hindu Business Line : States cannot shut down retail stores, says Pawar

New Delhi, Aug. 28 In a move supportive of organised retail trade expansion in the country, the Union Agriculture and Consumer Affairs Minister, Mr Sharad Pawar, said on Tuesday that States could not close down any establishment on a permanent basis unless there is violation of law.

Responding to queries about the Uttar Pradesh Government’s recent order to Reliance Retail and Spencer’s to shut shop in Lucknow and Varanasi, Mr Pawar felt closure for a few hours or a few days was understandable. “I am confident that this will not be a permanent one,” he said. However, the Centre had no role in the matter, he conceded. Mr Pawar added that “Law and order is the subject and prerogative of the State Government. They have got every right to take any decision to maintain the law and order.” The UP Government had last week ordered closure of Reliance and Spencer’s outlets in the two cities, citing law and order problems. It also set up a five-member committee to look into the issue and said based on the report a decision would be taken.

Meanwhile, reports from Lucknow said that groups of farmers asked for the reopening of the supermarkets in the interest of their community.

Kerala has also announced plans to restrict the number of outlets run by big retail chains in cities and bar them in rural areas.

Related Stories:
UP urged to review order on closure of retail outlets
Reliance Fresh, Spencer’s told to shut shop in UP

More Stories on : Retailing | Politics | Policy | States

Article E-Mail :: Comment :: Syndication :: Printer Friendly Page