Trade Bodies Seek Delay in Opposition Rally Over Festive Trade Fears

Delhi's business community is pressing the opposition alliance to reconsider a rally and protest planned for November 1, arguing that the timing could cause significant harm to markets during the Diwali and Bhai Dooj season.

Speaking on Wednesday, representatives of trade organisations said that major political events held close to busy commercial hubs affect everything from customer movement to sales. With the festive period critical for retailers and wholesalers alike, they fear that the proposed gathering could undo months of efforts to recover business.

Ravikant Garg, national president of the Vyapar Mandal, has asked Rahul Gandhi either to withdraw the protest or to shift it to a date after Diwali. He pointed out that the subject of the rally is already under consideration by the Supreme Court, where several petitions have been filed and a comprehensive hearing has recently taken place. The next hearing is fixed for November 17.

Garg questioned the need for a rally on a matter that is sub judice. He alleged that such events are designed to confuse people and exert political pressure. If the opposition is serious about constructive politics, he said, it should rethink the protest.

Sanjay Bhargava, president of the Chandni Chowk Trade Committee, said the concern goes beyond the rally day itself. Security measures, traffic restrictions and barricading that come before and after such events also weigh heavily on local businesses. If the event cannot be avoided, he said, it should be held after Diwali.

Bhargava warned that Ramlila Maidan's location between New Delhi and Old Delhi means a large turnout could lead to severe traffic congestion in both parts of the city. Chandni Chowk, Sadar Bazar and the surrounding wholesale and retail markets would be affected, he said.

Other traders have echoed these fears. Purancha Joshi said that protests near markets always cost shopkeepers the most, as customers stay away and businesses suffer losses running into crores of rupees.

Ajay Kumar Mittal said the festive season is the most crucial time for traders, who begin preparing stock, arranging supply chains and investing in advertisements months in advance. He said large rallies during this period could disrupt the whole business cycle, especially after several months of below-expected sales.

The traders' message is clear: they support political activity but want it postponed until the festival season has ended.