Representatives of many business oufits on Sunday announced a common trade body and came down heavily on the Centre for “policies affecting retailers”.

The newly formed Paschim Bengal Traders Welfare Association accused the Centre of “step-motherly attitude towards retailers” and appeasement of corporate groups.

“The pandemic severely hit retailers and traders, yet we pay GST and other taxes to central and state governments. But the Centre is allowing corporate houses to enter retail and supporting them,” said Khokan Bhattacharya, outfit president.

He said around 600 traders from 10-odd business outfits had joined the association, and they planned to meet the state commerce and industries minister and tourism minister to apprise them on their plight.

He said online shopping had affected their business. “On one hand, the Centre is stressing vocal for local, and on the other, encouraging online business.”

Yugraj Sirohia, association secretary, said they wanted maximum retail price (MRP) in all sectors, online promotion of local products, pension scheme for traders who have regularly paid GST for 10 years and rebate on interest of loans taken for micro, small and medium enterprises. “There should be no discrimination in taxes and other charges levied on offline and online trading,” he added.