Traders Approach Amit Shah, Demand Ban On Delhi Protests Until Diwali

With the festive season underway, anxiety among traders in the national capital has touched a new high. The Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI), a prominent trade organization, has written an urgent letter to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, appealing for a ban on all protests, rallies, and marches in Delhi until Diwali.

Festive Sales Under Threat Due to Protests

According to CTI, the period from Navratri to Diwali is the most crucial business window for traders across Delhi. During this time, markets witness peak demand for apparel, electronics, festive decorations, and sweets. However, recent demonstrations and roadblocks in major commercial hubs like Connaught Place, Janpath, and Khan Market have severely impacted customer footfall, causing panic among shopkeepers.

Thousands of Crores in Losses Claimed

Highlighting past incidents, the trade body claimed that a protest on October 10 created near-lockdown conditions in several parts of Delhi. Customer movement was paralyzed, resulting in an estimated business loss of nearly Rs 2,000 crores in a single day. Traders fear that upcoming political marches could further jeopardize the livelihood of nearly 20 lakh merchants operating in the city.

Appeal to the Government

CTI has urged the central government and political parties to prioritize the economic interests of traders during the festive season, balancing democratic rights with the financial survival of millions of small and medium business owners.