Shimla MC defers trade licence plan

In a significant relief for traders and businessmen, the Shimla Municipal Corporation has deferred its decision to make trade licences mandatory. Earlier, the corporation had resolved during the October Finance, Contract and Planning Committee meeting that all traders and businessmen would need trade licences. The process to implement this decision had already begun.

Mayor Surender Chauhan stated that the mandatory trade licence policy would not be enforced at this stage. He added that a final decision would be discussed at the upcoming monthly house meeting of the corporation.

The proposal had faced strong opposition from traders, who argued that the trade licence would impose an unnecessary financial burden. They claimed it was merely a revenue-generating measure for the corporation without providing any tangible benefits to them. Many traders pointed out that they already hold licences from the Food and Civil Supplies Department and GST registrations, making an additional trade licence redundant.

Traders held meetings with the Mayor and urged the corporation to withdraw the policy. Responding to the backlash, the corporation decided to seek suggestions from the traders to address their concerns.

This deferral is seen as a positive step by the business community, which continues to advocate for policies that support rather than hinder their operations. The upcoming house meeting is expected to shed further light on the future of this policy.