The BJP has opposed Commerce Minister Kamal Nath's proposal to allow foreign direct investment (FDI) in the retail sector on selected items. | |
| Party spokesperson Prakash Javadekar said, "We condemn the government's intention to allow FDI in the retail sector by selecting a few sub sectors like sports goods, electronics and building material". |
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| "It seems from Commerce Minister Kamal Nath's statement that the government has already made up its mind to allow multi-brand retailing and front- and back-end trading," he added. |
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| "The only decision which is pending is whether to allow it through the automatic route or the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) route," he said. |
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| He characterised it as "yet another attempt by the government to bring in FDI in all sectors of retail marketing", adding that the BJP would oppose this move tooth and nail. |
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| "The government has already allowed 51 per cent FDI in single brand retailing and 100 per cent in cash and carry," he said. |
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| The BJP said it was concerned about nearly 15 million small retailers in India who may face closure if FDI in retail was allowed. |
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| "Retail is a labour intensive, employment generating activity, with many Indians running a 'mom and pop' store kind of operation. The BJP cannot sit by and watch them going out of business," said Javadekar. |
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