Pan shops across Maharashtra remained closed on July 14 as thousands of vendors observed a statewide bandh to protest against what they claim is the misuse of legal provisions, including IPC Section 328 and the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA).
The protest has been organised by the Maharashtra Pan Vyapari Mahasangh, which represents more than seven lakh pan vendors across the state. As part of the protest, members of the association gathered at Azad Maidan in Mumbai to raise their concerns and demand a review of the action being taken against traders.
According to the association, many pan shop owners are facing legal action under IPC Section 328, a provision related to administering harmful substances, in cases involving products that they claim are legally sold in the market. Vendors argue that applying this section against them is unfair and has created fear among small traders.
Ajit Suryavanshi, State President and spokesperson of the Maharashtra Pan Vyapari Mahasangh, said the matter is currently pending before the Supreme Court and expressed confidence in the judicial process.
“The matter is presently before the Hon’ble Supreme Court, and we have complete faith in the judiciary. No final decision has been delivered yet,” Suryavanshi said.
He further questioned why Maharashtra traders were being treated differently when previous observations by both High Courts had stated that Section 328 should not be applied in such cases. He raised concerns over the legal basis of using a provision meant for cases involving poisonous or harmful substances against vendors dealing in products that are otherwise permitted.
The pan vendors’ association believes that the ongoing legal action is affecting thousands of small businesses and creating uncertainty among traders who depend on their shops for their livelihoods. Through the bandh, they aim to bring attention to their concerns and seek clarity from authorities.
The protest comes at a time when the issue remains under judicial consideration, with vendors hoping that the final outcome will address their concerns and provide relief to those affected.
For now, customers across Maharashtra are witnessing the impact of the shutdown, as pan shops remain closed in support of the vendors’ statewide protest.
