Lack of AFD items annoy ex-servicemen

CHANDIGARH: Though the ban on the sale of Against Firm Demand (AFD) items such as TVs, refrigerators, washing machines, airconditioners and cars from CSD canteens got over on June 30, the defence personnel, especially thousands of ex-servicemen based in Tricity, are still deprived of purchasing these products from canteens as the CSD authorities are yet to issue fresh policy or guidelines.
In May, authorities had issued a circular putting a blanket ban on the sale of AFD items till June 30. Due to this, the ex-servicemen community was forced to purchase these household products from open market at high rates. Also, the local CSDs have no idea what to do when approached by customers as the items are not available for the past over two months. Lt Col (retd) P S Bajwa of Sector 71 said there is lack of even the basic products.
President of ex-servicemen grievance cell Lt Col (retd) S S Sohi said, ‘‘This is simply unfair. Retired soldiers should at least be provided the basic items.’’