Lucknow
The Samajwadi Party (SP) is set to hold a ‘padyatra’ on November 2 in solidarity with retailers and small shopkeepers who have been protesting against the impact of online businesses across all districts of Uttar Pradesh. The move is aimed at extending support to these local businesses that have been adversely affected by the rise of online commerce. Pradeep Jaiswal, the President of Samajwadi Vyapar Mahasabha Uttar Pradesh, stressed the severe consequences faced by retailers and small traders due to the emergence of online business. He explained that SP leaders will symbolize their support by placing red caps on the heads of small traders during the padyatra, illustrating the party’s commitment to their cause. Jaiswal also criticized the BJP government, alleging that it has deceived small traders, while highlighting the respect and support given to them by the Samajwadi Party. Abhimanyu Gupta, Senior Vice President of UP Samajwadi Vyapar Mahasabha, pointed out that small traders have faced a series of challenges, including the impact of demonetization, the introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST), inspectorial regulations, and the growing influence of online businesses. He emphasized that during Akhilesh Yadav’s tenure as the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, he supported and championed the cause of small traders. SP Chief Akhilesh Yadav, in a press statement, accused the BJP of pursuing anti-farmer policies that primarily benefit capitalists. He claimed that the BJP’s policies have let down farmers and that the party’s government has failed to make adequate arrangements for the procurement of paddy. Furthermore, he highlighted the farmers’ difficulties in securing the minimum support price (MSP) for wheat and paddy, expressing solidarity with their cause. The ‘padyatra’ is a demonstration of the SP’s commitment to supporting the interests of small traders and retailers in Uttar Pradesh. Please note that the Samajwadi Party will conduct a ‘padyatra’ on November 2 to express solidarity with retailers and small shopkeepers protesting against online businesses in Uttar Pradesh. The party aims to show its support for local businesses affected by the rise of online commerce and criticize the BJP government’s policies.
