New Delhi, October 28, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI), which represents traders and entrepreneurs in Delhi, has written an open letter to Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi seeking a 20-minute meeting to discuss the Congress-led INDIA bloc’s proposed rally at Ramlila Maidan on November 1.
CTI Chairman Brijesh Goyal has proposed a meeting involving 20 representatives from 20 major wholesale markets near the venue, citing concerns that the rally could disrupt business during the Diwali shopping season.
The organisation said the rally, which is expected to draw around one million people, could affect commercial activity because of large crowds, traffic restrictions and diversions.
Goyal offered to withdraw the CTI’s opposition and welcome the rally if Rahul Gandhi could convince the traders that the event would benefit businesses and expand their customer base. Conversely, if traders demonstrate that the gathering could harm commercial activity, the organisation urged him to postpone it until after Diwali.
“We want dialogue, not a fight,” Goyal said, adding that the proposed meeting would give small traders an opportunity to present their concerns directly.
The 20 markets identified by the CTI include Chandni Chowk, Sadar Bazaar, Khari Baoli, Bhagirath Palace, Chawri Bazaar, Kashmere Gate, Karol Bagh, Daryaganj, Paharganj, Gaffar Market, Jama Masjid-Meena Bazaar and Lajpat Rai Market, among others.
These commercial hubs deal in a wide range of goods, including electronics, electrical equipment, spices, dry fruits, garments, jewellery, books, machinery, auto parts and mobile phones. The CTI said the markets, located roughly one to five kilometres from Ramlila Maidan, could face difficulties operating during the rally.
The letter also referred to Rahul Gandhi’s message of love and harmony, saying traders respected the sentiment but wanted business activity protected during the festive period.
“Rahul ji, you open a shop of love in the market of hatred, we respect you, but do not close the shop of love in the market of Diwali,” the letter stated.
The CTI said it hoped Rahul Gandhi would accept the meeting request and discuss the rally’s potential impact on the capital’s commercial areas.
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