Traders Urge Rahul Gandhi to Postpone November 1 Rally
The Chamber of Trade and Industry warns that the rally could disrupt business worth ₹10,000 crore during the Diwali shopping season.
Traders estimate losses of ₹3,000 crore due to previous protests.
The rally is scheduled for November 1, coinciding with peak shopping days.
CTI calls for political parties to avoid large rallies in commercial areas during festivals.
In a significant appeal, the Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI) has requested Rahul Gandhi, the leader of the opposition in Lok Sabha, to delay the upcoming rally of the INDIA bloc scheduled for November 1 at Ramlila Maidan. The CTI warns that this demonstration could severely impact business operations, potentially leading to losses amounting to ₹10,000 crore during the crucial Diwali shopping period.
Brijesh Goyal, the chairman of CTI, emphasized the timing of the rally, noting that it coincides with the peak shopping days leading up to Dhanteras and Diwali. With Dhanteras falling on November 6 and Diwali on November 8, traders anticipate a surge in customer activity. Goyal pointed out that the Dhanteras-related business in Delhi alone spans various sectors, including gold, electronics, and textiles, contributing around ₹25,000 crore to the local economy.
The CTI highlighted that traders in Delhi have already faced substantial financial setbacks, estimating losses of approximately ₹3,000 crore in October due to previous protests and road closures in key areas like Connaught Place and India Gate. Goyal noted that the disruptions have halted the movement of goods into wholesale markets, making it difficult for retail customers to access these markets.
The organization identified around 20 wholesale and retail markets within a five-kilometer radius of Ramlila Maidan, including prominent locations such as Chandni Chowk and Karol Bagh. Goyal warned that traffic diversions and metro station closures during the rally could paralyze business operations in these markets, which are essential for supplying goods across the country.
While acknowledging the importance of peaceful protests, the CTI urged political parties to reconsider holding large rallies in commercial areas until after the festival season. The opposition rally aims to increase pressure on the government regarding allegations of electoral misconduct, specifically the 'vote chori' issue. As protests continue to escalate, the opposition bloc remains committed to addressing these concerns and ensuring a fair electoral process.
