NEW DELHI: Delhi’s traders have urged Congress leader Rahul Gandhi to postpone the INDIA bloc’s proposed rally on November 1, warning that it could disrupt business worth ₹10,000 crore during the crucial Diwali shopping season.
The Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI) has requested that the rally at Ramlila Maidan be rescheduled to a date after November 10. In a letter to Gandhi, CTI chairman Brijesh Goyal highlighted concerns over traffic restrictions, barricading and large crowds affecting commercial activity across the national capital.
Why Traders Want the Rally Postponed
According to the CTI, Delhi conducts business worth approximately ₹25,000 crore during the Dhanteras and Diwali shopping period. The festive trade covers several sectors, including gold and silver, electronics, clothing, utensils, dry fruits, sweets, automobiles, property and gift items.
This year, Dhanteras falls on November 6, Diwali on November 8 and Bhai Dooj on November 10. Traders say shopping activity typically increases a week before the festivals, making the proposed rally’s timing a major concern.
The traders’ body has estimated that business worth ₹10,000 crore could be affected if the rally proceeds as scheduled. However, this figure represents the CTI’s projection, not confirmed financial losses.
Around 20 Markets Could Face Disruptions
The CTI has identified around 20 wholesale and retail markets within a five-kilometre radius of Ramlila Maidan. These include Chandni Chowk, Sadar Bazar, Khari Baoli, Kashmere Gate and Karol Bagh.
The organisation warned that traffic diversions, road closures and possible public transport restrictions could make it difficult for customers and wholesale buyers to reach these markets. Traders arriving from other states could also face difficulties accessing Old Delhi and New Delhi railway stations.
The CTI further claimed that businesses had already suffered losses of approximately ₹3,000 crore in October due to rallies, marches and road closures in central Delhi.
Political Rally Adds to Festive Season Concerns
The proposed INDIA bloc rally aims to intensify opposition pressure over alleged irregularities in electoral roll revision and demands concerning Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.
While acknowledging the importance of peaceful protests, the CTI has appealed to political leaders to consider traders’ livelihoods and reschedule the rally until after the festive period.