Shopkeepers are true patriots who drive economy: Mann

Declaring it the beginning of a new era for business reforms in Punjab, Kejriwal said the commission would simplify procedures, curb “tax terrorism” and eliminate unnecessary hurdles. “Today, a new beginning is taking place for small shopkeepers and traders. No one ever paid attention to them,” he said, congratulating members appointed at various levels of the commission.

Reflecting on governance after four years, Kejriwal said, “It is often said that after four years, strong anti-incumbency sets in. But today, instead of anger, I heard people appreciating the work done over the past four years.” He also criticised the traditional mindset towards traders, stating, “Every government treated traders as thieves. We do not think like that. Traders work day and night, take risks, pay taxes, generate jobs and support society.”

Explaining the structure, Kejriwal said commissions would function at the state, district and constituency levels, with traders working alongside police and administration. “Ninety per cent of the problems from roads and sanitation to local disputes will be resolved at the constituency level itself,” he said, adding that policy-level issues would be taken up with the state government.

CM Mann said the initiative was unprecedented in Punjab. “This is a unique programme which never happened under previous governments. Shopkeepers are the true patriots who serve the country in the real sense by propelling the economy,” he said, expressing confidence that the commission would act as a catalyst for growth.

Highlighting his government’s people-centric approach, Mann said over 61,000 youths have been given jobs on merit, 17 toll plazas closed, saving nearly Rs 64 lakh daily, and vacant toll offices would be converted into Aam Aadmi Clinics. “Every rupee of increased government revenue will be spent judiciously for Punjab’s development,” he said.

Senior AAP leader and Punjab in-charge Manish Sisodia said traders are the backbone of Punjab’s economy. “For the first time in the country, traders are truly being empowered. The government itself will reach markets to resolve issues at the doorstep,” he said.

Cabinet ministers Aman Arora, Harpal Cheema, Sanjeev Arora, among others, were present at the event.