MSME Ordinance against indigenous people of Assam: AASU

A CORRESPONDENT

JORHAT: The All Assam Students' Union (AASU) Jorhat regional unit on Thursday staged protest against the Ordinance passed by the State Cabinet for setting up micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) for the next three years without obtaining required permission from the government.

The AASU said the government decision would pose a threat to the land of the indigenous people in the State as under the ordinance agricultural land could be easily converted for non-agricultural use. The students' body alleged that the cabinet had taken the decision by taking advantage of the prevailing situation caused by COVID-19 outbreak. AASU organizing secretary Jul Khaund said, "The cabinet decision to set up MSMEs without required permission from the administration is against the indigenous people in Assam. We strongly condemn this government decision and demand to withdraw it at the earliest."

Meanwhile, State Industries and Commerce Minister Chandra Mohan tweeted on Thursday, "MSME ordinance approved by Assam Cabinet is only for Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises, not for large industries. This will largely help local entrepreneurs. This ordinance will not be applicable for hazardous industries and no industries will be allowed in eco-sensitive zones."

Earlier, Patwary had tweeted, "No permission, clearance or license will be required for three years. Land will also be deemed converted for industrial purpose. Such bold and advantageous change is expected to accelerate the industrialization process in Assam."

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