Opposition leader threatens to burn first store
India: Protests over foreign retail investment decision
He said the move to allow foreign retailers to open stores in the country came at a time when Himachal Pradesh is already facing competition from China, the US and Europe in regards to the apple trade.
He said, "By allowing FDI in multi-brand retail, apple growers will be finished. Even this season, growers in Himachal have lost Rs 600 crore due to the arrival of foreign apples. The FDI will open the floodgates for imported apples. Since the cost of production in US and China is very low as compared to Himachal, we will not survive anywhere."
He's not the only one to voice criticism of the new legislation. The opposition Bharatiya Janata party, is involved with strike actions that have disrupted businesses and public transport across much of the country. Party leader, Uma Bharti has even gone so far as to threaten to burn down the first store that opens in the country.
"I am determined to burn down the first shop that comes up after the agreement and am ready to go to jail," she said.
A spokesperson of Delhi based, Infosys, a software company forced to close due to the strike actions said, "We have asked our employees to stay at home." Another business representative said, "The fear factor is the reason for the closure."
A key ally of the ruling congress, the Trinamool Congress, is withdrawing from the coalition government over the decision. Its ministers will resign their posts this Friday.
However, Delhi's city government are keen to ensure the city is first to welcome the first international store and are even considering legislative changes to smooth its entry.
This will mean breaking the monopoly of the Agricultural Produce Marketing Committee.
"We will need to change the monopoly of the wholesale markets. Allowing direct purchase by retailers will also allow farmers to get better returns on their produce," said chief secretary P K Tripathi.
Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh says the move will "help strengthen our growth process and generate employment in these difficult times."
Source: expressindia.com; bbc.co.uk/news; deccanherald.com; firstpost.com