Gopal Italia Alleges Pressure on Traders to Shift to Surat Diamond Bourse

Surat | Gujarat — The political heat in Surat has intensified ahead of the upcoming local body elections after Gopal Italia launched a sharp attack on the Gujarat government over the Surat Diamond Bourse, alleging pressure tactics on traders and “zero planning” behind the mega project.

Addressing a public meeting in Ward No. 3, the Aam Aadmi Party leader accused the government of building the ₹4,000-crore diamond trading hub without consulting the industry and then forcing traders to relocate their offices there.

Allegations of pressure on traders

Italia alleged that traders in Mahidharpura and Mini Bazaar Varachha are being pressured to shift operations to the new bourse.

Without directly naming Harsh Sanghavi, he claimed traders were being warned of consequences if they refused to move.

“Traders are being told to shift their offices to the diamond bourse or be ‘taken care of’. Why is pressure being exerted if the project is truly beneficial?” Italia questioned.

‘₹4,000 crore spent without planning’

The AAP MLA criticised the government’s planning, saying the project was built without adequate consultation with experienced members of the diamond industry.

“They spent ₹4,000 crore but did not hold proper meetings with traders. If they had taken suggestions, the building would not be lying empty today,” he said.

Italia claimed the project was executed more for prestige than practicality. “This building has been constructed just to show ‘we are the greatest’, not to support the industry.”

Connectivity and infrastructure concerns

A major part of Italia’s criticism focused on the lack of international connectivity and supporting infrastructure around the diamond bourse.

“No direct flights to Hong Kong, Dubai, America or Canada. No five-star hotels nearby. No major jewellery companies operating there. How will diamonds be sold without international connectivity?” he asked.

He argued that global diamond trade relies heavily on easy international travel and world-class hospitality facilities, both of which he claims are currently missing near the bourse.

Political rhetoric intensifies

Using sharp sarcasm, Italia remarked: “A wise person consults before taking decisions. A fool takes decisions first and then asks if it was right. The government’s situation looks similar.”

He contrasted the Aam Aadmi Party’s decision-making approach with the ruling government, claiming his party consults citizens before implementing policies.

“We may be a new and small party, but we work by asking the people. That is why we have never had to backtrack on decisions,” he said.