STATE TIMES NEWS
JAMMU: A delegation of CCI headed by Arun Gupta, its President today called on Labour Commissioner UT of J&K, Charandeep Singh and discussed with him the issue relating to mandatory observance of “Closed Day” by Shops/ Establishments in UT of J&K.
During interaction Arun Gupta apprised the Labour Commissioner that the UT of J&K is a pilgrim / Tourist destination which is the main source of our economy.
The Pilgrims/Tourists used to visit the city of temples to buy the goods and eatables of their choice as such the business activities in this area cannot be restricted because by keeping our business establishments/Shops open, we serve the visiting Pilgrims/Tourists.
He also mentioned that the Prime Minister of India while addressing the Media fraternity has clearly said that we have allowed to keep Shops/ business establishments open for 24×7 days to boost the economy of our country. Besides, this after allowing FDI in retail sector to establish their outlets in India, these establishments are working throughout the week without observing any close day, even the local malls are also open throughout the week.
Arun Gupta also briefed the Labour Commissioner that every employee working in these shops/business establishments is give weekly paid off.
However, as per our best information, if any employer asks some of his employees to perform duty on the paid weekly off day who are interested to do so, they are paid extra salary of that day for performing their duties.
While reacting on the issues raised in the meeting, the Labour Commissioner assured that the trades and the areas which witness free flow of tourists and pilgrims shall be exempted from Mandatory observance of close day.
He asked the chamber to provide the list of areas and trades which are required to be exempted from the observance of mandatory close day.
The other office bearers who accompanied the delegation were Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President, Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President and Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer.