Coimbatore's small-scale firecracker retailers urge the Tamil Nadu government to ban online firecracker sales, citing unfair competition and safety concerns. They also request extended business hours and relaxed restrictions on firecracker bursting.
Coimbatore: The Coimbatore District Small-Scale Firecracker Retailers Welfare Association met with journalists at the Coimbatore Press Club on Audi Street to voice their concerns about the impact of online firecracker sales on their businesses. Association President Chinnusamy, Secretary Bharathimohan, and Organizer Ramaiya spoke to the press about the challenges faced by small retailers due to online trading.
The association representatives stated that despite court orders prohibiting online firecracker sales, the practice continues, severely affecting small-scale retailers. They argued that online sales do not benefit the government and called for a ban on such transactions. The retailers also raised concerns about the safety of firecrackers ordered online, claiming they are often transported in regular vehicles or cars without proper safety measures.
The association accused online sellers of offering substandard firecrackers under the guise of discounts and using misleading advertisements, particularly those centered around Sivakasi. They alleged that these sellers do not provide GST bills, making it difficult for consumers to file complaints about faulty products. The retailers emphasized that companies without proper manufacturing licenses and those evading GST payments are primarily responsible for such practices.
Demanding government action, the association called for stricter regulations on online firecracker sales and urged authorities to take note of the quality issues associated with these products. They also requested an extension of the business license period from 10 to 15 days and an increase in the time limits for bursting firecrackers.
The retailers sought permission to manufacture "saravedi" (ground chakkar) using traditional chemical methods, stating that it is not feasible to produce them according to the government's new guidelines. They also announced plans to display notices in all firecracker shops, as per Fire Department instructions, on the proper usage of firecrackers.
In conclusion, the association members revealed their intention to put up flex boards in shops with the slogan "Let's celebrate this Deepavali without accidents," emphasizing their commitment to safety during the festive season.
The association representatives stated that despite court orders prohibiting online firecracker sales, the practice continues, severely affecting small-scale retailers. They argued that online sales do not benefit the government and called for a ban on such transactions. The retailers also raised concerns about the safety of firecrackers ordered online, claiming they are often transported in regular vehicles or cars without proper safety measures.
The association accused online sellers of offering substandard firecrackers under the guise of discounts and using misleading advertisements, particularly those centered around Sivakasi. They alleged that these sellers do not provide GST bills, making it difficult for consumers to file complaints about faulty products. The retailers emphasized that companies without proper manufacturing licenses and those evading GST payments are primarily responsible for such practices.
Demanding government action, the association called for stricter regulations on online firecracker sales and urged authorities to take note of the quality issues associated with these products. They also requested an extension of the business license period from 10 to 15 days and an increase in the time limits for bursting firecrackers.
The retailers sought permission to manufacture "saravedi" (ground chakkar) using traditional chemical methods, stating that it is not feasible to produce them according to the government's new guidelines. They also announced plans to display notices in all firecracker shops, as per Fire Department instructions, on the proper usage of firecrackers.
In conclusion, the association members revealed their intention to put up flex boards in shops with the slogan "Let's celebrate this Deepavali without accidents," emphasizing their commitment to safety during the festive season.