Business establishments closed in J'khand protesting against ECA

Ranchi, May 28 (UNI) More than one thousand traders today marched to Chief Minister Madhu Koda's residence whereas majority of business establishments remained closed across the state protesting implementation of Essential Commodities Act (ECA) in Jharkhand.

The statewide agitation was called by Federation of Jharkhand Chamber of Commerce and Industries (FJCCI) in support of their demands including withdrawal of ECA which limits the stock of food grains for traders upto 250 quintals.

The state government on April 17 notified Licensing Requirements Stock Limits and Movement Restrictions on Specified Food Stuff order, 2008.

The traders from all nook and corners of the state, wearing black badges assembled here and marched to Mr Koda's residence in support of their demands which also included strengthening of law and order in the state.

The delegation met Mr Koda and handed over a memorandum, official sources said.

Meanwhile, Food and Supply Minister Kamlesh Singh said that a secretary level committee would be formed to study the efffect of the Act and would also be asked to submit its report soon.

The act had been imposed as a state government step after the Centre took measures to control price of essential commodities.

At present about ninety per cent of the state's foodgrain requirement come from Punjab, Haryana, Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, West Bengal, Bihar and Orissa.

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