Thane jewellers protest lockdown curbs by selling fruits, veggies

Jewellers seen selling fruits and vegetables outside their shops at Thane station road on Friday

Jewellers' businesses, which started only a few months ago as the lockdown slowly lifted, have been forced to shut down again amid the lockdown-like restrictions. On Friday, many jewellers took to selling fruits and vegetables outside their shops at Thane station road in protest of the government's decision.

A jeweller said, "The government has to understand who is spreading COVID. We never have more than a few people in our shops and we follow all guidelines. We are worried after our businesses have been stopped." The month-long restrictions have led to police closing down shops.

Jewellers also claimed that vegetable sellers who don't pay taxes and are conducting their business illegally are allowed to operate but not them. Thane Jewellers Association president Kamlesh Srisrimal told mid-day, "In the politics of state and Centre, only normal traders are suffering.

Around 700 jewellers protested outside their shops on Friday because they have no option left. The government has to think of a solution for us. Unless it does that, we will have no option but to sell fruits and vegetables."