Textile shops in Andhra to observe bandh

RAJAHMUNDRY: Andhra Pradesh Textiles Traders Federation has decided to go for a bandh of all the textile outlets in the state on July 20, protesting the 4 per cent Value Added Tax (VAT) imposed by the state government on textile products.Speaking to the media here on Monday, Andhra Pradesh Textiles Traders Federation vice-president Bommana Rajkumar said the government decision would have a bad impact on the textile business across the state was hit. The 1.50 crore employees in the sector along with the customers would also face the hit, he said.As part of their protest, week-long relay hunger strikes would be organised in each district. About 75 per cent of the clothiers will be compelled to close their shops, if the 4 per cent VAT is continued, he said.East Godavari District Federation president Pokala Sitaiah said with the imposition of of the VAT, prices of clothes would be increased on par with essential commodities.The federation is also planning to write telegrams to chief minister Nallari Kiran Kumar Reddy, UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and other leaders.Association members Rafiq Raja, SVR Guptha and others were also present.