NONGSTOIN, Sep 2: As the entire state desperately waits for a constant economic rejuvenation after a tumultuous second COVID wave, shopkeepers in Nongstoin come out in strong opposition to the imposition of the odd-even rule for opening of shops here.
Already reeling under heavy losses, shopkeepers and small business setups in Nongstoin appealed to the district administration to withdraw the rule during a meeting with the Deputy Commissioner of West Khasi Hills on Thursday.
The DC, taking note of their grievances, exempted the shopkeepers from the norm.
However, earlier to this development, a large number of shopkeepers held a protest march from Nongstoin to the DC’s office.
The agitators demanded of the district administration to allow them to operate their shops on all days while assuring that the shopkeepers will adhere to all COVID-19 protocols.
“It will be difficult for us to survive as shops will open for only three days a week, small businesses have already suffered due to the odd and even system,” one of the shop owners said.
“Besides, even if we open our shops for a limited number of days, our expenses would not reduce. We still have to pay salaries to our staff, school fees for our children and other expenses,” he added.
On reaching the gate of DC’s office, they were stopped by the magistrate and police personnel. However, five representatives were later allowed to meet the DC at his office chamber.
Following a brief discussion with the agitators, the DC agreed to exempt all shops in Nongstoin town area from the odd-even rule, but under the condition that they must follow all COVID protocols.
Following this, the shopkeepers decided to end their protest and returned peacefully, while thanking the DC.
Regardless, it is worth mentioning here that there was no official announcement from the district administration at the time of filing of this report.
