Delhi traders claim ₹11,000 crore loss after INDIA bloc rally
Approximately 2.5 lakh shops remained closed in major markets due to disruptions caused by the political gathering at Ramlila Maidan.
Delhi's trading sector faced estimated losses of between ₹10,000 crore and ₹11,000 crore following the INDIA bloc rally at Ramlila Maidan on Sunday, according to Mint.
Chamber of Trade & Industry (CTI) chairman Brijesh Goyal said that around 2.5 lakh shops out of nearly 3 lakh in 20 to 25 major markets near the venue remained closed. He attributed the closures to panic regarding the expected influx of people and vehicles for the protest.
Goyal stated that the disruption also prevented 3 lakh to 4 lakh business travellers from reaching the capital. He added that nearly 5,000 vehicles, including trucks and tempos, could not operate, which halted the movement of goods to Old Delhi and Central Delhi markets.
The CTI chairman noted that the impact was severe because the markets are in the peak Diwali season, with Dhanteras shopping set for four days later. He questioned whether the organisers would compensate the traders for the loss.
The Automotive Parts Merchant Association (APMA) also expressed concerns regarding the rally's timing and location. APMA president Vinay Narang said that while they do not oppose democratic protests, the venue and timing were wrong for the festive period.
The INDIA bloc held the rally to protest alleged irregularities in electoral rolls and the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise. The event was attended by leaders including Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, Mamata Banerjee, and Akhilesh Yadav.