Surat : Youth Congress Protests SMC’s Sealing drive Post-Rajkot Fire Incident

SURAT, GUJARAT : Youth Congress workers staged a demonstration outside the Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) headquarters in Mughalsarai today, protesting against what they termed as harassment of textile traders, hotels, hospitals, gyms, tuition classes, and schools in the wake of the Rajkot game zone fire incident. The protesters demanded the reopening of sealed premises across the city to prevent job losses and economic disruption.

Despite their attempts to submit a memorandum to the municipal commissioner, the Youth Congress workers were blocked by security personnel. Undeterred, they shouted anti-BJP slogans, expressing their frustration and calling for immediate action.

The Rajkot game zone fire incident has prompted a stringent crackdown by the Surat Municipal Corporation on establishments operating without fire No Objection Certificates (NOCs) and Building Use (BU) certificates. This drive has led to the sealing of numerous businesses, including hotels, hospitals, gyms, game zones, and tuition classes. While the intent is to ensure compliance with safety regulations, the closures have raised significant concerns about the livelihoods of workers, particularly in the textile market.

Many tuition class operators and hotel owners also gathered to make representations to the SMC. According to conversations with officials, there is a commitment to expedite the NOC process for tuition classes and to complete the certification process swiftly. However, officials have made it clear that they will not reopen the seals of hotels operating in temporary structures, citing safety concerns.

One official stated, “The process for issuing NOCs for tuition classes is being fast-tracked, and the necessary certificates will be processed quickly. However, hotels running in temporary structures will not be allowed to reopen. Safety is our top priority.”

The protest highlighted the tension between ensuring public safety and protecting economic interests. Textile traders, who are a significant part of Surat’s economy, are particularly affected by the closures. The Youth Congress workers argue that the sudden enforcement of regulations is unfair and that businesses should be given time to comply without being forced to shut down abruptly.

“We understand the need for safety, but the abrupt sealing of businesses is not the solution. People are losing their jobs and livelihoods. We demand a balanced approach that allows businesses to continue operating while they work towards compliance,” said a Youth Congress spokesperson.