Delhi’s Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI) has urged Congress leader Rahul Gandhi to postpone the INDIA bloc’s November 1 rally at Ramlila Maidan until after November 10, warning that the event could disrupt business during the peak festive shopping season.
In a letter to Gandhi, the traders’ body said traffic restrictions, road closures and large crowds could affect customers’ access to major commercial areas ahead of Dhanteras, Diwali and Bhai Dooj.
Traders Warn of Potential Losses
CTI chairman Brijesh Goyal said the rally could put festive trade worth nearly ₹10,000 crore at risk. The organisation also claimed that traders had already faced losses of around ₹3,000 crore during October because of protests and traffic disruptions in parts of central Delhi. These figures are the traders’ estimates and have not been independently established.
Major Markets Could Be Affected
The traders’ body highlighted the proximity of Ramlila Maidan to key wholesale and retail hubs, including Chandni Chowk, Sadar Bazaar, Chawri Bazaar and Karol Bagh. It warned that diversions and congestion could discourage shoppers and buyers travelling from outside Delhi.
The CTI said it supports the right to peaceful protest but appealed to political parties to avoid major demonstrations near busy commercial areas during the festive period.
BJP Also Criticises Rally Timing
The BJP has separately urged Congress to reconsider the November 1 date, arguing that it coincides with the anniversary of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots and could hurt Sikh sentiments. The Congress-led INDIA bloc plans to hold the rally as part of its campaign over alleged irregularities in electoral rolls and its “vote chori” allegations.
The controversy has brought together concerns over festive-season trade and political sensitivities, with the rally’s proposed timing drawing criticism from both traders and the BJP.
