Traders Warn of Diwali Losses as Ramlila Maidan Rally Nears
New Delhi, October 31: Delhi's business community has raised serious concerns over a large Congress rally planned for November 1, warning that it could severely hit the city's markets during the Diwali season. The Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI), which represents traders and entrepreneurs, has once again urged Rahul Gandhi to call off or postpone the event.
Speaking on behalf of the organisation, the CTI said the rally threatens businesses that depend on family-run shops and customer loyalty. 'Your statement that you run a shop of love in a market of hate applies to us as well,' the appeal said. 'Our businesses are also built on love and trust. We request that these shops are not closed due to a rally during the biggest festival of India.'
CTI Chairman Brijesh Goyal described the situation as a warning for political leaders. 'This poster should be a mirror for Rahul Gandhi. During the Bharat Jodo Yatra, he spoke of shops of love, but in Delhi, shops that have operated for 300 years are being forced to shut. From the paratha shop in Chandni Chowk and the spice dealers of Khari Baoli to the kulfi sellers of Karol Bagh, each shop supports 10 to 20 people.'
The CTI has decided to put up posters from Saturday in 20 major wholesale markets within a five-kilometre radius of Ramlila Maidan. According to the organisation, these markets are closest to the venue and would be the first to face closures if the expected crowd of 10 lakh people and 20,000 vehicles arrives.
Goyal stressed that the rally would take place just four days before Dhanteras, which is a crucial period for sales. 'Think about what will happen. With 20,000 vehicles, all of Delhi will be jammed. There is no parking for even 100 buses at Ramlila Maidan. Diwali trade worth 10,000 to 12,000 crore for 20 lakh traders will stop, and the livelihoods of 75 lakh people will be in danger,' he said.
The traders' body has indicated that it will keep pressing its demand as the rally date approaches.