In Gujarat, a strike has led to the closure of 17,000 ration shops, including 58 in Unjha taluka. Shopkeepers are protesting for 100% KYC (Know Your Customer) compliance. This has caused a serious disruption in the distribution system across the state.
The striking shopkeepers say that the KYC process has not been completed for many ration card holders. This situation has led to shortages of essential goods for customers. The ration shops normally provide food items to holders of NFSA, BPL, and Antyodaya cards every month.
Currently, many ration shops are closed, affecting residents in Unjha and surrounding areas. Customers are frustrated as they cannot access their regular supplies. The protest comes as shopkeepers want the government to ensure that KYC is fully completed before resuming distribution.
The Gujarat Fair Price Shop Association’s secretary, Alpeshbhai Shah, stated that the government has cut the quota of food supplies for ration card holders. He explained that the commission for shopkeepers has also been reduced. The strike will continue until KYC is completed and proper measures are taken to resolve the issues.
The demands of the shopkeepers include a transparent online system for monthly distributions and a commission of 300 per quintal for the goods sold. They are calling for immediate action to address their concerns.
As the strike continues, many families are left without access to essential food items. The situation is becoming increasingly tense as customers blame shopkeepers for the lack of supplies. In turn, shopkeepers are frustrated with the government’s handling of the KYC process and the impact it has had on their businesses.
The ongoing strike highlights the critical need for a well-functioning public distribution system in Gujarat. The state government must find a way to resolve these issues quickly to ensure that families can receive the food they need. The cooperation between the government, shopkeepers, and ration card holders is essential for a smooth distribution process.
In summary, the closure of ration shops due to the strike is affecting thousands of people in Gujarat. The shopkeepers are demanding that the KYC process be completed and that their commissions are restored. Until then, the strike will continue, leaving many families without access to basic food supplies.