AAP Hits the Streets: PM Modi’s Effigy Burnt in Massive Nabha Protest Over MGNREGA Cuts

In a landmark move aimed at restructuring the relationship between the state and the business community, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) National Convener Arvind Kejriwal and Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann presided over the inaugural meeting of the Punjab State Traders' Commission in S.A.S. Nagar (Mohali).

The leaders hailed the commission as a decisive blow to decades of bureaucratic negligence and the "Tax Terrorism" that has long stifled small businesses.

Bringing Governance to the Marketplace
Addressing a diverse gathering of trade association heads and independent business owners, Arvind Kejriwal emphasized that the days of shopkeepers running from pillar to post for administrative clearances are over.

"We have decided to bring the administration directly to the markets," Kejriwal stated. He explained that the commission is designed to simplify the tax system and remove procedural hurdles. Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann echoed these sentiments, describing traders as "true patriots" who drive the economy and deserve protection and dignity rather than harassment.

A Shift in Political Culture
Kejriwal noted a significant shift in public sentiment, highlighting that unlike previous administrations from the Congress or the Shiromani Akali Dal-which often faced public ire after four years in power-the AAP government continues to enjoy a transparent dialogue with the people.

"Usually, after four years, anti-incumbency sets in. Previous governments wouldn't dare hand a microphone to a public crowd for fear of backlash. Today, I see independent individuals-not just party workers-acknowledging that real work has been done."

Challenging the "Trader as Thief" Narrative
One of the most poignant moments of the speech was Kejriwal's critique of how previous governments viewed the business community. He argued that traditional parties have historically treated traders with suspicion, viewing them as "thieves" to be squeezed for taxes or exploited for election donations.

GST & Tax Terrorism: Kejriwal expressed a desire to eventually reform the GST system at the national level to liberate businesses from complex compliance.

Personal Connection: Drawing from his own roots in a merchant family, he recalled managing his uncle's grocery store as a youth. "The shopkeeper takes risks, provides employment, and fuels social charity, yet is constantly harassed. I understand your pain," he said.

The New Three-Tier Structure
The AAP chief outlined a decentralized model for the new commission to ensure grassroots efficiency:

State & District Levels: To handle policy recommendations and regional logistics.

Assembly (Halqa) Level: These local committees will include police, administration, and traders.

On-Ground Resolution: Officials will visit markets to address issues like broken roads, sanitation, water supply, and law enforcement on the spot.

Kejriwal concluded by asserting that 90% of grievances would now be resolved at the local level, ensuring that the smallest shopkeeper no longer needs bribes or high-level "recommendations" to conduct business in Punjab.