Kerala traders to down shutters on MNCs in retail on Feb 23

Kozhikode, Feb 20 (UNI) Shops and small trading establishments in Kerala will remain closed on February 23 following a strike call given by a leading trade body in the State to protest the entry of multinationals in retail sector in the country.

Announcing the decision, Kerala Vyapari Vyavasai Ekopana Samithy President T Naseeruddin told reporters here today the KVVES was forced to call the state-wide agitation as the government had 'miserably failed' to prevent the entry of multinationals in retail sector, which was 'detrimental to the intersts of small and marginal traders.' Later, the striking traders would converge in Thrissur District Headdquarters to participate in a 'Vyapari Vyavasai Sanghamam.' As many as two lakh traders are expected to participate in the congregation, he said.

Claiming the organisation had the support of all political parties in the State in the fight against the ''monopoly business houses,'' he said it would intensify the agitation if the government continued with its 'adamant attitude' on the issue.

UNI PCH GM SY DS1615