The debate has now intensified in political and business circles regarding the rapidly growing e-commerce and quick commerce sector in the country. MP and National General Secretary of Confederation of All India Traders, Praveen Khandelwal has demanded the government to take immediate and strict action against the alleged arbitrary and unfair business practices of these companies. He says that this issue is not limited to trade only but is also related to the economic structure of the country.
Public Trust Bill 2.0 described as historic initiative
Khandelwal welcomed the Public Trust Bill 2.0 passed by the Parliament and called it a positive sign for the business world. They said that Narendra Modi This initiative will strengthen trust-based governance and enhance ease of doing business. This will increase confidence among the entrepreneurs and businessmen of the country and the business environment will improve.
Serious allegations against companies with foreign capital
However, he expressed concern that some foreign-invested e-commerce companies are disturbing the balance of the Indian market. According to him, these companies have emerged as a big challenge for more than 9 crore traders of the country, who till now have been a strong base of supply chain and employment.
Small traders in trouble due to unfair practices
Khandelwal alleged that methods like predatory pricing, heavy discounting, dark patterns and inventory based model are being used in the name of marketplace. Apart from this, giving preference to selected sellers and rapid expansion of dark stores is also affecting competition. He says that all these practices have become a serious threat to the existence of small and medium traders.
Demand to implement national e-commerce policy
He clearly said, “Such companies cannot be given free rein in India. Ensuring a level playing field between online and offline business is very important for the balanced and sustainable economic growth of the country.” He appealed to the government to finalize the national e-commerce policy soon. Also, strict and transparent rules should be implemented so that discipline is maintained in the market. He also stressed the need to establish strong mechanisms for monitoring and enforcement.
Suggestion to form National Retail Development Council
Emphasizing on institutional reforms, Khandelwal demanded the formation of a National Retail Development Council. He says that this will provide direct and structured representation to the business community in policy making. He said, “Participation of traders in business related decisions is necessary. If the National Retail Development Council is formed then policies will be more practical, effective and in line with the ground reality.
Khandelwal finally said that as India moves towards becoming a global economic power, it is important to ensure that development is inclusive and fair. He believes that only a strong and secure trade system can lay the foundation of a strong India.