Chaos and shock: Mumbai, Kolkata, Chandigarh, Lucknow react to ₹500, ₹1000 ban
- Mixed reactions to currency banning.
- Chaos in some places.
- Ban to have strong impact on Punjab, UP polls.
FollowThe news of the banning of ₹500 and ₹1000 spread an instant shock wave across the country, and people did not know how to react to it. Without getting into the details, people rushed towards the ATMs to get cash for next two days, and online publications broke the internet with the PM Narendra Modi's announcement and related important details.
The tech-savvy population also reacted to the news with tweets and memes that kept the web world buzzing all through the night and this will be the topic of conversation for next couple of days, months, and also years.
Residents of different cities across India also reacted to the news and here is how four cities reacted to this significant economic development.
Mumbai: In general, Mumbaikars are happy and welcoming about this currency ban decision of the government. The prospect of combating the black money issue and PM Modi's secrecy about such a huge move till the last moment was much appreciated by the people of the city. Though, there are some who argued that this decision is harsh on traders and some expressed worries about getting the currency exchanged.
Kolkata: The city of joy seemed to be in shock after the announcement was made. Apart from queueing up in front of ATMs to deposit denominated currencies and withdraw ₹100 rupee currency many also rushed to the liquor shops and bars to gulp a few pegs before the midnight strikes. Many also complained that SBI account holders were able to deposit the ₹500 and ₹1000 rupee notes but what about those who do not have an SBI account.
Chandigarh: The Punjab elections are around the corner and this banning of currency will also have an impact on these assembly polls. It is an open secret that political parties lure the voters using cash, valuables, liquor, and drugs, and because of the denomination, such election malpractices will be carved out.
Lucknow: The chaos was such in the city that police were on high alert, and the other law enforcement agencies had to step up their vigil for stopping any unfortunate event. Long queues were seen outside ATMs, petrol pumps, malls, shops to exchange the denominated currency and get lower-value notes. About the impact on rural area and how crucial it is, here is what UP CM Akhilesh Yadav tweeted:
