‘Find solution to current impasse over farm laws’

Tribune News Service

Amritsar, November 6

Expressing deep concern over the state of Punjab’s economy and industry in the wake of ongoing rail blockade because of agitation by farmer organisations, the district chapter of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) has issued a fervent appeal to both the Centre and state governments and also the farmer organisations to come together and find an amicable solution to end this crisis.

Naavniit Miterr, chairman, Amritsar Zonal Council, said it was a democratic right to raise the cause through peaceful protests and agitation. We understand that farmers may have some reservations with respect to the recently passed farm Acts. However, this agitation is now causing economic losses not only to large businesses but also to the local industries, labour in the factories, logistic providers, small karyana stores, who are unable to get the supply.

He stated the more this blockade continues, the more harm it will bring to the overall image of state as an investment and business destination, which successive state governments had painstakingly tried to build.

Rajiv Sajdeh, vice-chairman, CII Amritsar Zonal Council, stated that industry had already been reeling under stress because of the lockdown imposed in the wake of Covid-19.

He said because of the ongoing agitation and blockade the industry was suffering from all ends, be it the supply of raw material and semi-finished goods to our factories.

He said both events created a crisis like situation for trade and industry adversely impacted the working capital and liquidity in market.