Looks like Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s move to demonetise Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes has not only brought inconvenience to the Indians across the nation but the Russian envoys too.
Alexander Kadaki, a Russian ambassador wrote to the Ministry of External Affairs saying that the demonetisation is causing a massive hindrance to the Russian diplomats as well as the functioning of the embassy. In his letter, Alexander has affirmed the cash withdrawal limit of Rs 50,000 was not enough for the functioning of an embassy.
The Russian convoy has went on to add that the cash crunch has made it difficult for them to even buy a “decent dinner” at a restaurant.
“SBI informed the Embassy that the cash withdrawal limit available to the Embassy is now Rs 50,000 per week under the government of India directives with no exceptions unless otherwise advised by the RBI. Please just imagine if we in Moscow mirror this order of SBI (State Bank of India) when 50,000 Roubles will not be enough to pay for a decent dinner in a restaurant, not to mention functioning of such a big embassy as ours in New Delhi or India’s in Moscow,” he wrote.
It is important to note here that the Russian embassy in Delhi staffs some 200 people. However, the MEA has not responded to the letter as yet.
Alexander Kadaki further added in his letter that they were not begging for money but only asking the government to let them withdraw their own money since the Russian nationals visiting India were their responsibility. he has urged the government to lift the restriction for the smooth functioning of the embassy.
Meanwhile, it’s almost been a month since PM Modi announced his demonetisation move. The demonetisation drive has not only made the Indian stand in long queues across the nation but have made it extremely tough for the international tourists to survive in the country amid cash crunch.
