Gandhi links protest end to Kumar removal; traders seek rally postponement

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has indicated that ongoing protests could be resolved swiftly if specific administrative action is taken, according to statements made to members of the trading community. Speaking with representatives of the business sector, Gandhi suggested that the removal of an official could lead to an immediate cessation of demonstrations.

The remarks come as the Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI) has formally requested that the INDIA bloc postpone its scheduled November 1 rally at Delhi's Ramlila Maidan. The traders' body has expressed concern that the event could disrupt business activities during the peak Diwali shopping season, potentially resulting in losses exceeding ₹10,000 crore.

The CTI has urged Gandhi and opposition leaders to reschedule the rally for after November 10, allowing the critical pre-festive trading period to proceed without disruption. The Diwali season represents one of the year's most significant commercial periods for India's retail and trading sectors.

The timing of the rally, coinciding with peak consumer spending in the lead-up to Diwali, has raised concerns among business associations about potential roadblocks and security measures that could impede normal commercial operations in the capital.