Thousands of traders across India are observing a shutdown on Wednesday against the government's decision to allow 51 per cent FDI in multi-brand retail and 100 per cent FDI in single-brand retail.
The shutdown means it will be a difficult day for lakhs of consumers.
Mumbai's usually crowded markets saw little activity since morning. Over one lakh shops in the city are likely to keep their shutters down.
In Kolkata, traders have come out in full support of the all-India bandh called by the Confederation of All India Traders.
In Uttar Pradesh, the bandh is being supported by the Samajwadi Party, BJP and BSP. The Samajwadi Party has planned protests across the state.
Both the Left parties and the BJP are backing the nationwide shutdown. The Opposition parties have been blocking Parliament proceedings and have demanded that the government reverse its decision on FDI.
But the government is sticking to its guns and maintains that FDI will help marginal traders and get farmers a better price for their produce.
Source : indiatoday.intoday.in