Jewellers Reeling Under Pressure

Mumbai: Jewellers are facing challenges in doing hassle-free business during the peak wedding season, which has coincided with the Maharashtra Assembly polls this year, as their goods and bank accounts are being seized by officials despite having relevant papers, an industry body said. The Model Code Conduct (MCC) is in place in Maharashtra since October 15 in view of the polls on November 20. To enforce the code, the Election Commission (EC) has constituted flying squads and surveillance teams across the state to check movement of unaccounted cash and goods which can be used to induce voters.

“We have received clarity from the EC office regarding movement of goods and we are thankful to them. However, jewellers are still facing challenges like seizing of their accounts despite showing all the necessary documents, which are hindering seamless business during the wedding season,” All India Gem and Jewellery Domestic Council (GJC) chairman Saiyam Mehra said. He said the goods seized by officials working EC direction will only be returned after the elections are over. Mehra stated that the gems and jewellery industry, a major job creator, is expecting incentives and tax concessions in Maharashtra, a key market for them, when a new government is formed after announcement of poll results on November 23.