Bathinda: Punjab Pradesh Beopar Mandal president Amit Kapoor on Thursday accused the AAP government of ignoring traders for four years and now staging a “political gimmick” by suddenly expressing concern for them. He said traders continue to operate under economic strain, administrative harassment, and a growing sense of insecurity, yet the government has offered no meaningful relief.Kapoor said the state’s claims of simplifying and making GST procedures transparent do not match ground reality, where GST officials are “reaching every market and lane, exerting undue pressure on traders.” Small and medium businesses already hit by inflation and weak demand are repeatedly slapped with notices, enquiries, and penalties. In several cases, he alleged, officials inflate violations to meet targets, with complaints of extortion emerging from across the state.“The trading community pays taxes, generates employment, and strengthens the economy, but receives neither respect nor security,” Kapoor said.He added that incidents of theft, loot, and threats have increased, leaving traders feeling unsafe. Many families that suffered loss of life or property, he said, have not received adequate compensation or justice. Kapoor warned that if the government fails to take concrete policy decisions soon, the Mandal will launch a statewide agitation.
