Trade body seeks delay of Delhi rally, citing ₹10,000 crore Diwali season impact

The Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI) has written to Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, requesting that the INDIA bloc postpone its scheduled rally at Ramlila Maidan until after November 10. According to CTI chairman Brijesh Goyal, holding the political gathering during the festival season risks disrupting wholesale and retail trade valued at approximately ₹10,000 crore across markets adjacent to the venue.

The traders' body pointed out that Delhi's commercial districts typically witness substantial business activity in the week preceding major festivals. This year, Dhanteras falls on November 6, followed by Diwali on November 8 and Bhai Dooj on November 10. Goyal noted that the capital ordinarily records transactions worth around ₹25,000 crore across the festive season, spanning sectors including precious metals, electronics, apparel, home goods, dry fruits, confectionery, automobiles, real estate and gift items.

The timing of the proposed rally coincides with increased consumer footfall expected ahead of the major shopping festivals, when traders anticipate peak seasonal sales. The CTI's appeal underscores concerns from the business community about potential disruptions to commerce during what remains the most lucrative trading period of the year in Indian markets.