Delhi traders seeks ban on protests till Diwali, says business hit

The Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI) has demanded a ban on large-scale protests in Delhi's key commercial and central areas from Navratri till Diwali, citing their impact on businesses.

The outfit also urged the government to designate a permanent protest zone outside the city.

In a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, CTI chairman Brijesh Goyal called for restrictions on large gatherings at Jantar Mantar, Parliament Street and Lutyens' Delhi, saying repeated demonstrations and disruptions to metro services were affecting traders and customer movement.

Goyal said the festive period, beginning with Navratri and Ramlila events on October 11, is crucial for traders, with Diwali and the wedding season following.

The organisation said restrictions are needed to protect the business of around 15 lakh traders in the national capital.

According to a CTI survey, business activity in Delhi's markets has fallen by around 70 per cent over the past three days.

The number of customers ..