Protests threaten festive trade in Delhi markets

Repeated protests, police barricades and traffic restrictions in central Delhi are taking a toll on businesses in Connaught Place, Khan Market and Palika Bazaar, with traders warning that disruptions during the festive season are threatening their livelihoods and putting months of preparation at risk. For shopkeepers, October is a crucial period when festive shopping, wedding purchases and tourist visits typically boost sales. However, traders say the uncertainty surrounding access to commercial areas has discouraged customers from visiting markets, leaving shops struggling to generate revenue while fixed expenses continue to mount.

At Connaught Place, one of the capital’s busiest shopping and commercial destinations, traders have reported a sharp decline in customer footfall during protest-related disruptions. Barricades, security deployments and restrictions on movement have made access difficult, while some establishments have remained shut during demonstrations. Kapil Nath, who runs a Woodland store in Connaught Place, expressed frustration over the absence of customers during a recent protest. “Only protesters, shopkeepers, media personnel and police are here, where can you see the customer?” he asked.

The impact is particularly concerning because the final months of the year account for a substantial share of sales for many retailers. Nath said October, November and December contribute around 70% of his business, making the disruption a serious setback at a time when shopkeepers expect their investments in seasonal stock to pay off. Traders say the problem is not limited to lost sales. Rent, staff salaries, electricity bills, maintenance charges and other expenses must be paid regardless of how many customers enter a shop.

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Atul Bhargava, president of the New Delhi Traders Association, highlighted the financial pressure on businesses in the commercial hub. “We have to pay our rent, staff, and property tax. We are incurring heavy losses,” he said. The association has urged political parties and protest organisers to choose designated demonstration venues instead of major commercial centres, arguing that businesses should not be forced to bear the economic consequences of repeated disruptions. The situation has also raised concerns among traders in Khan Market, where shopkeepers say restricted access and falling footfall have compounded an already difficult business environment.