New Delhi: The Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI), a prominent traders’ association in Delhi, has formally written to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, requesting the postponement of the INDIA bloc’s upcoming mega rally scheduled for November 1 at the Ramlila Maidan. The merchants have expressed deep concerns that the massive political gathering, slated right in the middle of the peak festive season, could disrupt local commerce and potentially impact business worth Rs 10,000 crore.
In its written appeal, the CTI urged the Congress leadership to push the rally dates beyond the Bhai Dooj festival on November 10. The trade body explained that a single-day mega rally effectively paralyses commercial activities for three to four days in the surrounding areas. According to CTI Chairman Brijesh Goyal, Delhi’s business community has already endured severe financial blows, suffering losses amounting to Rs 3,000 crore in October alone due to frequent road closures, political marches, and rallies around Connaught Place, India Gate, and Central Delhi.
The Ramlila Maidan is strategically located within a five-kilometre radius of over 20 of the capital’s most historic wholesale and retail hubs. These include bustling commercial centres like Chandni Chowk, Sadar Bazar, Chawri Bazar, Bhagirath Palace, Khari Baoli, and Karol Bagh, which supply goods across India. Traders fear that traffic diversions, metro station closures, and heavy barricading required for the political event will bring daily operations to a grinding halt.
Furthermore, the proximity to both the Old and New Delhi Railway Stations means out-of-town wholesale buyers might avoid travelling to the capital entirely due to anticipated crowds and road blockages, further dampening festive sales. With Dhanteras falling on November 6, Diwali on November 8, and Bhai Dooj on November 10, purchasing traditionally peaks a week in advance.
Highlighting the high economic stakes, Goyal elaborated in the letter, “Dhanteras alone brings in a business of about Rs 25,000 crore across sectors like gold, electronics, clothing, and automobiles in Delhi. This trade is the backbone of the city’s economy.”
The CTI concluded its letter by stating that while the business community fully respects democratic values and the right to peaceful protest, they earnestly urge all political parties to refrain from organising massive events near key commercial areas until November 10 to ensure a smooth trading period.