Traders protest against retail chain in Tiruchi

Members of the Tamil Nadu Vanigar Sangankalin Peramaippu blocked the Tiruchi–Vayalur Road on Saturday, where a large retail chain is set to open a new outlet. The protesters were demanding curbs on the growing presence of corporate firms in the retail sector.

As part of the protest, shops along a stretch from Puthur to Somarasampettai remained closed till the afternoon.

Federation president A.M. Vikramaraja said multinational and domestic corporate companies were “eating into the livelihood of small and medium retailers” through large-format stores that offered heavy discounts.

He said two such outlets of a retail chain were operating in Tiruchi, with a third sprawling unit under construction on Vayalur Road. “Corporate dominance is threatening small retailers’ survival. This is only a symbolic protest to draw the attention of the Centre and the State governments. If action is not taken, we will intensify the agitation across Tamil Nadu,” he said.

State general secretary V. Govindarajulu, in his address, urged the government to amend laws to safeguard the interests of small traders and check corporate expansion in retail.

Later, Mr. Vikramaraja told presspersons that the federation would soon seek an audience with Chief Minister M.K. Stalin after his return from an overseas trip and press their demand.