Mumbai traders seek govt mediation as Maratha quota stir leads to losses

Mumbai: As the Maratha reservation protests intensified, the trading community of Mumbai sought immediate talks between the Maharashtra government and protestors led by Manoj Jarange-Patil or intervention by the Bombay High Court.

According to the Federation of Retail Traders welfare Association ( FRTWA), the business community is facing losses.

“The massive gathering at Azad Maidan has thrown South Mumbai into complete chaos. Uncontrollable traffic and swelling crowds have paralyzed the city, severely affecting daily life and business,” said Viren Shah, President, FRTWA.

“Weekend sales across shops and markets have dropped to negligible levels, leaving traders and business owners helpless. Business meetings are being postponed, offices are disrupted, and economic losses are running into huge amounts. Mumbai feels hijacked,” Shah added.

“This deadlock cannot continue. It urgently requires government talks or intervention by the High Court to restore normalcy. Otherwise, the long-term damage to South Mumbai’s business and livelihood will be devastating,” Shah said.