Traders Urge Rahul Gandhi to Postpone Nov 1 Rally Amid Diwali Concerns
Delhi's Chamber of Trade and Industry calls for a delay in Congress's rally to avoid disrupting festive business.
CTI requests postponement of Nov 1 rally due to Diwali.
Potential Rs 10,000 crore loss in festive trade cited.
BJP criticizes Congress for insensitivity towards Sikh sentiments.
The Delhi Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI) has formally requested Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition, to delay the Congress party's scheduled rally on November 1 at Ramlila Maidan. This appeal is made in light of concerns that the rally could significantly disrupt business activities during the crucial Diwali shopping period, which is vital for traders in the region.
CTI chairman Brijesh Goyal highlighted that the festive season, particularly Dhanteras, sees business transactions in Delhi amounting to approximately Rs 25,000 crore. He expressed that the rally could hinder market access and traffic flow for several days, potentially leading to a staggering Rs 10,000 crore loss in festive trade. Goyal also pointed out that traders had already faced losses of Rs 3,000 crore in October due to previous rallies and road closures in key areas such as Connaught Place and India Gate.
In a related political development, leaders from the INDIA bloc are set to conduct a symbolic 'public impeachment' of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar on October 30. This event will take place at Hotel Ashok, where prominent opposition figures are expected to announce their verdict publicly.
The BJP has criticized the Congress party for planning the rally on November 1, claiming it is an insensitive act that would hurt the sentiments of the Sikh community. The BJP pointed out that this date marks the anniversary of the anti-Sikh riots of 1984, which the party alleges were instigated by Congress in collusion with the then-government. BJP spokesperson Ravi Shankar Prasad condemned Rahul Gandhi's decision, suggesting it reflects a disregard for the emotional weight of the date and the ongoing struggles of traders during the festive season.
Looking ahead, the situation remains tense as the November 1 rally approaches. The CTI's plea highlights the intersection of politics and commerce, particularly during a time when traders rely heavily on festive sales. The outcome of the rally and its potential postponement will likely have significant implications for both political dynamics and the local economy in Delhi as the Diwali festivities unfold.
