Rajasthan traders organize mass rally against Microsoft

The Rajasthan traders protest against Microsoft has been intensifying in last one week. After a complete one day bandh observed across Rajasthan on May 21st, more than 10,000 traders of Rajasthan held a mass rally on May 25th across the state. The association has taken this step in view of the 'Police action by Microsoft' on one of the RCTA members.

Kailash Gupta, president RCTA said, "Rajasthan Bandh of all Computer traders was called on 21st May against Police action which was quite successful. We also had organized rally on Saturday, 25th May in coordination with All district Computer Trade associations against this action as well as to spread awareness on 'Alternative and Affordable' software for customers. Microsoft is resorting to 'Blackmailing' tactics and taking Police actions by 'infringed' framed cases against IT Dealers forcing them to forcefully sell Microsoft products to customers. This is highly unethical approach by a highly professional company of international repute where they are having dual pricing."

This issue has been well supported by all the Rajasthan traders. RCTA has been receiving overwhelming support to RCTA. All Rajasthan district locations who have computer associations were united to work for common issues. During this movement against 'Microsoft' various new associations have been formed e.g. Bhilwara; Rajsamand; and many are in process.

The RCTA has also directed its tier-2 partners including sub-distributors and regional distributors not to make any fresh billing of any laptop/desktop either preloaded or with Linux/DOS and Intel as well as all other brand processors from any vendor or national distributor till the time this matter is resolved by Microsoft or till any further communication from RCTA.

Gupta also clarified that, "We all are not against Microsoft products but against their policies/strategies to 'force sell these products with dual standards of pricing and licensing in India as well as through various channels in India. The same product which is sold in retail is available through OEM companies @1/5 of the prices. RCTA has been working closely with Microsoft team for past more than 2 years to jointly educate channel as well as customer through various market development of programs with a clear understanding that 'no action whatsoever will be taken without informing RCTA and/or member."

The idea of this ban is to convey all vendors and distributors to jointly take a call to compel Microsoft to resolve this matter amicably in the interest of the whole IT Community. The association wants to put pressure on Microsoft to discuss the matter with association.

Gupta also added, "We have a separate committee who is talking to Microsoft on this matter. We are likely to meet Microsoft's higher management next week to come out with a solution to this dual pricing and harassment of our members."
Meanwhile, the association will start conducting technical forums and seminars to educate customers and dealers on open source