More clarity needed on reopening of shops during lockdown: RAI


Team Udayavani, Apr 25, 2020, 12:55 PM IST

New Delhi: The Retailers Association of India (RAI) on Saturday said the government’s order to allow the reopening of the neighbourhood and standalone shops needs more clarity for easier implementation, saying it is open to interpretation as terms like “market complexes” are not easily understood.

The retail industry body said keeping in mind the current environment and lessons learnt by opening up of essential retail through the lockout, “we would recommend that the government open up all channels of retail on a date that it feels safe with the social distancing norms clearly defined” while also asking for malls to be allowed to open.

The government on Friday night allowed the opening of the neighbourhood and standalone shops, including those located in residential complexes within municipal areas, but at a 50 per cent strength and after taking necessary precautions.

However, the order, signed by Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla, made it clear that shops in market places, multi-brand and single-brand malls located in municipality areas shall continue to remain closed till May 3.

“We feel the current circular is open to interpretation and needs more clarity for easier implementation – terms like market complexes are not easily understood,” RAI said in a statement.

While extending support to the government’s efforts to open up the retail sector, the industry body further said, “We at RAI are willing to work with the government to make this process of opening retail easier without compromising on social distancing norms.”

RAI also reiterated its demand to open up all channels of retail to help both consumers and businesses during the lockdown.

“Keeping in mind the current environment and lessons learnt by opening up of essential retail through the lockout, we would recommend that the government open up all channels of retail on a date that it feels safe with the social distancing norms clearly defined. Local authorities can ensure strict implementation and action,” it said.

Malls should also be allowed to open as they are professionally run and would be able to control the environment for safety and social distancing, RAI said.

Udayavani is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel and stay updated with the latest news.

Top News

FIR against Sanjay Raut’s brother for remarks against Shiv Sena’s woman leader

Kodagu murder case accused escapes from police in Hyderabad

Karnataka Maritime Board announces plans for Mangaluru Water Metro Project

Royal Enfield forays into electric bike segment; unveils first model under Flying Flea brand

US going to historically tight presidential election

Balasore tragedy result of composite negligence of railway officials: Orissa High Court

Actress Kasthuri stokes controversy by her remarks on Telugu-speaking people in TN

Related Articles More

New software for fast-tracking project approvals: Karnataka Minister Patil

In-flight passengers can access WiFi services only when allowed, say new rules

SEBI mulls separation of non-regulated activities; ‘cross-default’ definition for debenture trustees

Sensex plunges 942 points to settle at nearly 3-month low; RIL, HDFC Bank biggest drag

Equity investors become poorer by Rs 7.37 lakh crore during morning trade as markets tumble

MUST WATCH

Gho Pooja in Deepavali Festival

Melukote Deepavali

Ganapathi Co-operative Society Ltd

Udayavani Chinnara Banna 2024

Annapoorna Aahar | Food Places In Mysore


Latest Additions

FIR against Sanjay Raut’s brother for remarks against Shiv Sena’s woman leader

Kodagu murder case accused escapes from police in Hyderabad

New software for fast-tracking project approvals: Karnataka Minister Patil

Karnataka Maritime Board announces plans for Mangaluru Water Metro Project

In-flight passengers can access WiFi services only when allowed, say new rules

Thanks for visiting Udayavani

You seem to have an Ad Blocker on.
To continue reading, please turn it off or whitelist Udayavani.