Delhi traders have urged authorities to cancel the proposed Congress rally at Ramlila Maidan on November 1, warning that the event could disrupt business, traffic and access to hospitals and New Delhi railway station just before Diwali.
The Delhi Traders Federation has written to Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu, Police Commissioner Anurag Kumar and Municipal Corporation of Delhi Commissioner Sanjeev Khirwar, seeking immediate cancellation of the booking for the proposed mega rally. The federation’s president Devraj Baweja and senior vice-president Rajendra Kapoor signed the request.
The traders said the period before Diwali is the most important business season of the year for Delhi’s wholesale and retail markets. They pointed to the proximity of Ramlila Maidan to Chandni Chowk, Sadar Bazaar, Khari Baoli and Chawri Bazar, which are among the capital’s major commercial areas.
According to the federation, extensive barricading and traffic diversions during the rally could severely affect nearly 30 per cent of Delhi’s wholesale trade. The traders have not opposed the right to hold a democratic gathering, but said that public interest, public safety and livelihoods should not be affected by the event.
The federation also raised concerns about movement around Lok Nayak Hospital, GB Pant Hospital, Maulana Azad Medical College and Guru Nanak Eye Centre. It said a large crowd and traffic congestion near the venue could create difficulties for patients, ambulances and hospital visitors.
New Delhi railway station, located near the central Delhi markets and the rally venue, was also mentioned in the representation. The traders said congestion and diversions in the area could affect passengers travelling during the pre-Diwali period.
The federation has asked that the rally be shifted to an alternative location outside the city. The representation seeks cancellation of the existing booking, but the report does not state whether the Lieutenant Governor’s office, Delhi Police or the MCD has accepted the request or announced a decision.
The dispute places the management of large public gatherings against the operational needs of central Delhi’s dense commercial and institutional district. Any decision on the venue and traffic arrangements will determine the next steps for the proposed November 1 programme.
