‘Up to 2.5%’ clause sparks fresh row as arhtiyas seek restoration of full commission
Indian Express·3h ago·Anger
What Happened
Commission agents in Punjab are demanding restoration of full 2.5 percent commission after the 2020 amendment introduced "up to 2.5%" wording. Arhtiyas argue this change reduced their earnings to fixed payments around Rs 50.75 per quintal instead of percentage-based compensation. They cite rising operational costs and inflation as concerns. Legal challenges have failed because courts interpret "up to" as a ceiling. Arhtiyas organized protests and submitted representations to government, threatening intensified agitation during wheat procurement season.
Key Entities
Punjab Commission Agents (Arhtiyas)Punjab Agricultural Produce Markets ActRavinder Singh CheemaPrem GoelVijay KalraPunjab GovernmentCentral GovernmentPungrain