Shopkeepers in Quandary Over Losing Money, Facing Police Cases

Hyderabad: Shop owners, selling an array of items from perishables to food and cosmetics to essentials, are a disgruntled lot over being booked by the police for keeping their shops open after 10 pm, the stipulated deadline under the model code of conduct for the state polls.

Given that it is the festive season, leading to increased customer footfall, shopkeepers said that the rules would cause them a major loss in business.

Ravi Raju, a shop vendor in Madhuranagar, told Deccan Chronicle: “We are aware of the rules, but our business often extends beyond 10 pm due to customer demand. It's challenging for us, as we need to make a living, but we also understand the importance of following the rules set by the Election Commission of India.”

Shyam Gupta, owner of Bheema Varam Ruchulu in Madhuranagar, said, “I was fined for keeping my shop open until 11 pm. Closing early affects our earlings. It's tough for us because we sell dinner items and the busiest time for our business is after 9 pm. Sometimes, we have to extend our hours, but we understand the rules and try to follow them.”

Madhuranagar inspector B. Srinivas said: “Cases have been registered against shop vendors continuing their operations beyond the permissible hours, as per the election code. We are actively taking photos as evidence and issuing challans and registered pity cases.”

West zone DCP Joel Davis said: “Our teams are on the ground, monitoring and taking necessary action against those who violate the election code. This includes registering cases, collecting evidence through photographs and issuing challans as part of our commitment to ensuring a fair and regulated electoral process. At least 10 cases are registered in each police station.”

Individuals who depend on food outlets are also facing issues.

Rama Krishna, who works with a private firm, said: “I am single and usually have no time after my office ends at 10 pm. I mostly rely on food sold by roadside vendors. It was a bit shocking because I couldn't find any food.”

 “Hyderabad is renowned for its food and night food courts are among the most popular places. This (restricted timing) is disappointing for the food lovers,” a Kalyannagar resident said.