Punjab industry hit by Dera controversy

Punjab's trade and industry have been badly affected by the Dera Sacha Sauda controversy. Hosiery, knitwear, woollen, auto parts, exporters and engineering industry are postponing their trade plans due to the volatile situation.

Ludhiana Knitwear Club President Vinod K Thapar said the industry was suffering because the clients and buyers from other states and countries had postponed their visits.

"Two of my clients, Cantabil and Tag Hills India from New Delhi and Noida, respectively, were to visit my company on May 20. However, they have now postponed their visit till after May 30. Most of our club members are facing similar problems."

Ludhiana Hotel and Restaurant Association General Secretary Amarbir Singh said the hotel business had been affected to a great extent.

"Around 70 per cent of the bookings have been cancelled by customers," he said, adding that the customers were waiting for the situation to normalise. "Even the restaurants' business has gone down by 35-40 per cent."

Apex Chamber President (Punjab) PD Sharma said everyone seemed worried. "Our clients have cancelled their visits and that is why the whole industry is suffering. Even when there was terrorism in the state, industry never responded to the bandh calls but this time, things are different. Today, the bandh was called by the Akal Takht."