Mamata threatens to pull plug in 72 hours

 The issue divided the NDA as well. While the Akali Dal patted the government for the “bold initiative that will help farmers get better prices for their produce”, the BJP was severely critical. “The decision has jeopardised the livelihood of millions of retail traders,” said Rajnath Singh, former BJP president. BJP chief spokesperson Ravi Shankar Prasad accused the government of bowing to foreign pressure. The Samajwadi Party, which supports the UPA government from outside, was guarded in its response. “We are opposed to it in principle,” said Rajesh Dixit, party general secretary. CPI(M) general secretary Prakash Karat said the decision will spell doom for lakhs of small shop-owners. CPI leader D Raja said the government had gone back on its commitment to consult all stakeholders and the chief ministers on the issue.