Cash-strapped Indians across the country are taking out their anger and frustration against the government’s decision to withdraw Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes in different ways.
In Coimbatore, members of AIDWA, the women’s wing of the CPI(M) protested against demonetisation at an ATM near the Coimbatore district collector’s office. But it wasn’t a regular protest, where members carried placards or shout slogans denouncing the government and its policies. Instead, they mourned the death of the ATMS machine, placing a garland and showering flowers on what used to be a cash-dispenser.
The group of women then stood in front of the ATM and sang funeral sounds, some even going to the extent of pretending to cry.
Speaking to the media, Amritham, AIDWA member said, “People are standing in line to withdraw money. But there is no cash. Bank officials are saying the money hasn’t come. Bank officials say, ‘Only this much money has come. Only if they send more money can we give you.’”
Demanding that the demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes be revoked, AIDWA members condemned Prime Minister Modi for ignoring people’s hardship. They also demanded that the Centre and state governments ensure that people are not made to suffer and that they get money from ATMs.
In Kerala, a similar “funeral” was held for an ATM, where residents in Kannur placed a wreath at an ATM with a note for the Prime Minister which read, “Condolences to the ATM that left us before its time. The funeral will be conducted after Modi returns from Japan.”
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