The new income tax law requiring master distributors to clear MSME bills within 45 days sparks concern among merchants. Some reduce purchases to comply, fearing tax implications. Merchants argue customers face no such deadlines, posing payment challenges. Trade bodies seek grace periods and leniency, highlighting logistical and financial hurdles. Calls for government payments to set examples and requests for extensions underscore broader industry apprehensions over the law s impact on trade dynamics.