Srinagar, Jan 28 : The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industries (KCC&I) has taken exception over the clampdown of fresh lockdown by administration in Jammu and Kashmir hinting that its adverse effects on the business community which they say is already marred with financial instability.
“As the Covid-19 positive cases continue to spike across the UT of Jammu and Kashmir, the government in order to contain the contagion continues with weekend lockdowns. The fresh lockdowns, however, have again adversely impacted the livelihood of daily wagers and businesses community”, Sheikh Ashiq Ahmad, President, Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industries (KCC&I) said in a statement issued to GNS and urged the administration to keep the livelihood of the business community in mind before taking any future decision and tackle the situation in consultation with traders / industry/ business community.
“As the successive pandemic triggered lockdowns have wreaked havoc on the economy, after the receding of the second wave, the businesses had started to resuscitate. But much to the dismay of stakeholders, the lockdown came again to haunt”, Ashiq said.
“The years of lockdowns have pushed the business community to the wall and they are reeling under tremendous stress. The only stability they have been staring at is financial instability.”
The government, according to the President, should ensure that people adhere to COVID-19 appropriate behaviour and the protocol is followed strictly. Lockdowns cannot be the first solution or perhaps are not a solution as it does more harm than good.
The business community ensures support to the administration in implementing proper Covid protocol.
In times like these, when the financial instability is marring the community, we request the government to come out with certain packages for the business community in the prevailing circumstances, Ashiq said adding Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha is urged to intervene and a “financial sustenance package” for the businesses community be released. (GNS)
