Amritsar Traders Warn of Gangster Threats, Law‑and‑Order Issues, Says Vipin Nayar

Amritsar’s commercial community has raised concerns over a combination of criminal intimidation, deteriorating law‑and‑order and what they describe as an over‑bearing inspection regime. Businessman Vipin Nayar, speaking on behalf of local traders, highlighted that these factors are creating a hostile environment for shops and markets across the city.

According to Nayar, the presence of local gangsters has escalated in recent weeks, leading to threats and occasional extortion attempts on shop owners. The traders argue that the lack of effective police action has emboldened these elements, making daily operations increasingly risky.

In addition to criminal pressure, the merchants point to a perceived breakdown in public order, with frequent street clashes and disruptions that deter customers. They also criticize the intensified inspections by municipal and revenue officials, which they say are arbitrary and add to their financial burdens.

When approached for comment, the local police and municipal authorities did not provide an immediate response, leaving the traders’ grievances unaddressed for now.

The situation underscores the broader challenges faced by small‑scale businesses in Punjab’s second‑largest city, where security and regulatory certainty remain critical for economic stability.