Taking up the growing issues faced small and medium traders in Bihar, the CPI(ML) has launched a state-wide campaign highlighting the neglect and devastation faced by small business owners under the "double engine" BJP-led government. A preparatory meeting of trader representatives from 22 districts across Bihar was held in Patna on May 5, following a call by CPI(ML) MP Sudama Prasad. The meeting resolved to organise a State-Level Traders' Convention in Patna on 13 July 2025, with the demand for the formation of a Traders’ Commission at the forefront.
The meeting was attended by CPI(ML) State Secretary Comrade Kunal, Sikta MLA Virendra Prasad Gupta, and representatives from Ara, Rohtas, Kaimur, Gopalganj, Bhagalpur, Madhepura, Purnia, West Champaran, East Champaran, Patna and other districts.
Comrade Kunal accused the BJP government of systematically destroying traditional retail livelihoods. “Since the BJP came to power, small and medium traders have been pushed into ruin,” he said. “GST and unregulated online commerce have crippled local businesses. Footpath vendors face routine repression by the administration. At the same time, the Modi government has waived Rs13 lakh crore for corporates while denying even minimal relief to small shopkeepers. Over 84 lakh livelihoods have been lost as a direct result.”
MP Sudama Prasad expressed grave concern over the rising insecurity and extortion faced by traders. Referring to the recent broad daylight robbery at the Tanishq showroom in Ara, he said traders are living in fear, with no real protection from the state. “This ‘double engine’ government has become a double bulldozer for traders. From demonetisation to lockdowns and neoliberal economic policies, every measure has brought further destruction.”
He also raised the unfulfilled promise of vending zones for street vendors. “Though a law was enacted, no proper implementation or space allotment has been done. Vendors are repeatedly evicted — exposing the government’s hypocrisy,” he said.
The meeting saw participation from traders of all communities and castes. Speakers condemned the communal politics of the ruling dispensation, accusing it of deliberately dividing people to distract from real economic issues. “The trader community is beginning to unite and fight back,” they asserted.
