Imagine waking up in the dead of night to buy your favourite snacks. But for Nagpur’s shopkeepers, this is still a distant dream. The 24×7 Shop Operation Policy, which was supposed to be implemented months ago, is yet to take effect.
The policy aims to allow shops to operate round the clock, much like in cities like Mumbai and Delhi. But Nagpur’s shopkeepers are crying foul, claiming that the police are not doing enough to implement the policy.
According to sources, the police have been raiding shops that are operating late at night, fining them and even confiscating their stock. Shopkeepers say this is not only unfair but also a major setback for their businesses.
Traders Decry Police Action
Many shopkeepers have taken to social media to express their frustration, claiming that the police are not giving them enough notice before raiding their shops. They also say that the police are not providing any support to help them implement the 24×7 policy.
‘We are being unfairly targeted by the police,’ said one shopkeeper. ‘We just want to operate our shops without any hassle.’
Experts Weigh In
Experts say that the 24×7 Shop Operation Policy has the potential to boost Nagpur’s economy, but it needs to be implemented properly. ‘The policy needs to be supported by the police and the administration,’ said an expert. ‘Otherwise, it will only lead to more problems.’
Nagpur’s shopkeepers are hoping that the government will take their concerns seriously and implement the policy soon. But until then, they will continue to operate in the shadows, afraid of being fined or raided by the police.
The fate of Nagpur’s 24×7 Shop Operation Policy remains uncertain, but one thing is clear – shopkeepers need support to make it a success.