Delhi’s Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI) has written to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, requesting that the INDIA alliance’s mega rally scheduled for November 1, 2026, at Ramlila Maidan be postponed. The traders’ organisation argues that the event could disrupt business during the crucial Diwali shopping season. CTI has urged the organisers to hold the rally after November 10, the date of Bhai Dooj, warning that traffic restrictions and crowds could affect customers and deliveries across major commercial areas.
₹10,000 Crore Trade at Risk
According to CTI, the rally could affect business worth up to ₹10,000 crore during the festive period. The organisation estimates that a one-day event could disrupt commercial activity for three to four days. CTI chairman Brijesh Goyal has pointed out that around 20 major wholesale and retail markets are located near Ramlila Maidan. These markets serve customers from Delhi as well as traders and buyers travelling from other parts of the country, making uninterrupted access particularly important during the festive shopping rush.
Why the Dates Matter
In its letter, CTI highlighted the importance of the upcoming festival calendar. Dhanteras falls on November 6, Diwali on November 8 and Bhai Dooj on November 10, according to the dates cited in the report. Traders say shopping begins well before the festivals, with customers purchasing gold, silver, utensils, electronics, clothing, dry fruits, sweets, vehicles, property and gifts. CTI estimates that Dhanteras alone generates around ₹25,000 crore in business in Delhi, making the period especially important for retailers and wholesalers.
Traders Claim ₹3,000 Crore in Earlier Losses
CTI has also raised concerns about business disruptions earlier in October. According to the organisation’s estimate, rallies, marches and road closures around Connaught Place, India Gate and central Delhi have already caused losses of approximately ₹3,000 crore. Traders say restrictions affected the movement of goods into wholesale markets and made it difficult for retail customers to reach shops. They fear another major event during the festive period could add to these losses.
Major Markets Could Face Disruptions
Several prominent commercial hubs are located within approximately five kilometres of Ramlila Maidan, including Chandni Chowk, Sadar Bazaar, Chawri Bazaar, Bhagirath Palace, Khari Baoli, Kashmere Gate, Karol Bagh and Lajpat Rai Market. CTI says traffic diversions, barricades and possible restrictions around metro stations could disrupt business. The proximity of Old Delhi and New Delhi railway stations is another concern, as traders and customers regularly use these stations to travel into the capital.
Appeal to Respect Both Business and Democracy
CTI has said it respects democratic values and the right to peaceful protest but wants political parties to avoid holding large rallies near major commercial areas until the festive period ends. The organisation has specifically requested that Rahul Gandhi consider scheduling the event after November 10. The letter reflects growing concern among traders about balancing political events with economic activity during one of the busiest shopping periods of the year. The report does not confirm whether Congress has agreed to postpone the rally.
