Kolkata- Potato traders in West Bengal have decided to continue their indefinite strike, which began Monday night, after a meeting with state Agriculture Minister Becharam Manna failed to resolve their concerns. The traders, affiliated with the West Bengal Progressive Potato Traders' Association, are demanding the relaxation of restrictions on transporting potatoes to other states.

Despite Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's statement in the Assembly earlier today assuring that the government would prioritize meeting internal demand before allowing exports, traders remain unconvinced. They cite the current stock of 6.5 lakh metric tonnes of potatoes in cold storages, significantly exceeding the December demand of 3 lakh metric tonnes, as evidence that the restrictions are unwarranted.

The strike has raised concerns about potential price surges in West Bengal. Prices of popular varieties like 'Jyoti' and 'Chandramukhi' are already hovering between Rs 35 and Rs 42 per kilogram in retail markets.

The strike is the second in three months, following a similar protest in August. An association office bearer emphasized the irrationality of the restrictions, given the surplus stock and the potential impact on farmers and traders.

As of now, the state government has not indicated any timeline for lifting the restrictions.