When should a businessman in Delhi shut his shop in the evening?
Delhi shopkeepers seem to be confused as a signed appeal by chief minister Sheila Dikshit requests them to shut their businesses by 8 pm while a Labour Department public notice asks them to close their shops by 7:30 pm.
The appeal of the chief minister, who holds the power portfolio, was issued by the power department in the wake of an "unprecedented situation" where the city has witnessed an increase in demand for electricity.
In the appeal, Dikshit also asked shopkeepers and others to set air-conditioners at a moderate temperature of 25 degree Celsius, especially in large establishments.
However, the Labour Department notice published in newspapers asks shopkeepers to shut their businesses by 7:30 pm for the next 15 days.
"Occupiers and owners of all shops and establishments are directed to close their shops and establishments by 7:30 pm. No establishment will use its AC and neon signboards after closure of the establishment," the notice said.
In 2004, the Government had exempted shops from observing closing time. "Due to the present power situation, the exemption then granted, is being suspended for 15 days. The situation will be reviewed after 15 days," it said.
