Will Fair Price Shop Dealers in Bengal Launch a Relay Hunger Strike from February 16?
Synopsis
The All India Fair Price Shop Dealers Federation in West Bengal is set to stage an indefinite relay hunger strike starting February 16, protesting against the Central government's proposal to eliminate essential subsidies in the ration system. This action aims to protect the livelihoods of ration dealers and raise awareness about the potential negative impacts of cash transfer systems.
Key Takeaways
Hunger strike to protest Central government's subsidy cuts.
Indefinite strike begins on February 16 .
Concerns over Direct Benefit Transfer and cash-based systems.
Protests have already escalated in Darjeeling and Kalimpong .
Potential legal action may follow if government plans proceed.
Kolkata, Feb 10 (NationPress) The West Bengal branch of the All India Fair Price Shop Dealers Federation has announced plans for an indefinite relay hunger strike at food shops in or near Kolkata starting February 16. This action is a protest against the Central government's proposal to eliminate subsidies in the ration system in favor of Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), food coupons, and e-rupee.
A press release following the state committee meeting indicated that the protest has been ongoing since early February, with ration shops in the Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts remaining closed as part of the demonstration.
The movement aims to broaden its reach across the state.
National General Secretary of the organization, Biswambhar Basu, criticized the Central government for attempting to effectively dismantle the subsidy framework within the ration system, pushing for a cash transfer and coupon-driven approach. Although the current central budget does not directly reference these changes, there are significant concerns that implementation may occur at any moment.
The press release further emphasized that the interests of dealers have been compromised in the past due to organizational weaknesses.
To prevent a recurrence of such situations, the organization is preparing for advanced protests, including the possibility of filing a special leave petition in the Supreme Court if necessary. Ration dealers across both urban and rural areas of the state have been instructed to gather one Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) ration card, the relevant Aadhaar number, and the WhatsApp number of the cardholder from their respective areas and submit this information to the state office.
According to the protest plan, a stage and microphone will be set up with the Kolkata Police's approval.
A designated number of ration dealers from each district and sub-control of the state will be required to participate in the hunger strike on specific days, which will be decided through a lottery. On those days, all ration shops in the participating areas will close. However, the administration will be notified in advance in compliance with the 2024 Control Order. The organization has warned that if the discriminatory treatment of ration dealers' livelihoods in both the Central and state budgets continues, the movement will escalate.
Point of View
It's essential to highlight the serious implications of the proposed changes in the ration system for both dealers and consumers. The planned hunger strike underscores the mounting tensions between state and Central policies and the potential fallout for vulnerable populations. The situation warrants close attention and coverage as it unfolds.
NationPress
21 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the reason for the hunger strike?
The hunger strike is a protest against the Central government's proposal to eliminate subsidies in the ration system, replacing them with Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), food coupons, and e-rupee.
When will the hunger strike take place?
The indefinite relay hunger strike is scheduled to begin on February 16.
Who is leading the protest?
The protest is led by the All India Fair Price Shop Dealers Federation's West Bengal unit.
What actions have been taken prior to the hunger strike?
Prior to the hunger strike, ration shops in Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts have been closed as part of ongoing protests.
What are the potential consequences of the proposed changes?
The changes could severely impact the livelihoods of ration dealers and the accessibility of subsidized food for millions of beneficiaries.
