Trade bodies cite festival season losses as protests block roads

Leading merchant associations have reported significant revenue losses as anti‑SIR protests continue to block major thoroughfares in Delhi and other cities. The Dal and Besan Millers Association of Delhi, Bangalore Ulsoor Clock Merchants Association and several grain‑trader unions sent a joint statement remarking that the ongoing agitation is hitting businesses at the most vulnerable time of the year.

According to the statement, the blocked routes are preventing traders from receiving goods, limiting customers' access to markets, and disrupting the seasonal spike in sales that typically fuels the economy during Diwali and Navratri. The associations have asked Rahul Gandhi to intervene, suggesting that he use his political platform to facilitate dialogue with the Election Commission rather than encouraging street protests.

The appeal was reinforced by a video message from Ghanashyam Das Goyal, a member of the Delhi Dal and Besan Millers Association, who described the situation as a "crisis for merchants" and called for an immediate end to the demonstrations that are harming small businesses across the capital.