Jewellers observe strike to protest trader's murder

Jewellers across the city and some parts of Gujarat today observed a day-long strike to protest the murder of a bullion trader here and demand security for those involved in the business.
Three unidentified youths shot dead Hitesh Jhaveri (46), a jeweller, and injured two others in broad daylight before fleeing with Rs 1.09 crore in cash in the upmarket Shivranjani area on Wednesday last. Crime Branch, which is probing the incident, is yet to make any arrest.
The strike evoked support from city jewellers, who downed shutters in protest. Jewellers in some other parts of the State also observed a bandh in solidarity.

"There have been repeated incidents of attack on jewellers. The strike is a protest against this and also against Jhaveri's murder," Gems and Jewellery Trade Council of India (GAJTCI) President Shanti Patel said.
The Gujarat chapter of All India Gems and Jewellery Trade Federation (AIGJTF) also supported the strike.
"The day-long strike was total with manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers abstaining from work to protest Jhaveri's death," AIGJTF President Jhaverbhai Jhaveri said.

Patel said traders had a meeting with senior city police officials, who assured to provide adequate security to jewellers and bullion traders.
"Our problems were put before the police. They have assured us tighter security," Patel said.

"Jewellers (or others from office) going to deposit money in banks will be provided adequate security," he said.