Demonetisation: Interim changes not a solution to problem faced by people, says Mamata

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday slammed the Centre for restricting the counter exchange of high-value currency notes, saying that the interim small changes are not a solution to the problem faced by the common people.

"These interim small changes will not work. They are not a permanent solution to the problem faced by the common people. Vast sections of society are totally left out because of this policy," Banerjee told ANI.

On Thursday, the Centre restricted the counter exchange of old Rs. 500 and Rs 1000 currency notes after the midnight.

However, certain exemptions relating to cancellation of legal tender character of old currency notes has been extended up to December 15, including for the payment of current and arrears dues to utilities which will be limited to only water and electricity.

Payment at toll plazas can be made via old notes from December 3 to 15 as toll-free arrangement continues up to December 2.

School fees up to Rs. 2000 per student can be made through old currency in all Central, State, Municipality local body schools and Central or State Government colleges.

However, foreign citizens will be permitted to exchange foreign currency up to Rs. 5,000 per week. Entry to this effect will be made on their passports.

Purchase from Consumer Cooperative Stores will be limited to Rs. 5000 at a time.