Source : INDIA TODAY NEWS
The INDIA bloc rally held in Delhi on November 1 has raised concerns among the city’s trading community, with the Delhi Vyapar Mahasangh (Regd.) flagging disruptions to business activities, customer movement and the livelihoods of traders and workers.
In a statement issued after the rally, the traders’ body said that while political parties have the democratic right to express their views and demonstrate their strength, the impact of large public gatherings on businesses, employment and the general public must also be taken into account.
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Delhi‘s wholesale markets are not just trading hubs for the national capital but also serve as a crucial centre for millions of small traders and shopkeepers from across the country. Markets such as Sadar Bazar attract buyers from several states, making them an important part of the country’s supply and distribution network.
The traders’ body said that disruptions to traffic, public movement and routine market operations during major political events could affect business, particularly during important trading periods ahead of festivals such as Diwali.
TRADERS FLAG IMPACT ON BUSINESS AND LIVELIHOODS
In its assessment titled ‘What was lost, what was gained?’, the Delhi Vyapar Mahasangh listed several concerns arising from the November 1 rally.
It said business activity and customer footfall were affected on an important trading day, while small traders travelling to Delhi from other states faced disruptions to their schedules and purchasing opportunities.
The impact, it said, could extend beyond shop owners to employees, labourers, transporters and their families, whose daily earnings depend on regular business activity.
The traders’ body also flagged concerns over the business image of Delhi’s major markets, warning that repeated disruptions could encourage customers to turn to online platforms and other trading centres.
MAHASANGH ALSO LISTS POSITIVE OUTCOMES
Despite raising concerns over the economic impact, the traders’ body acknowledged that the rally brought greater public attention to the problems faced by Delhi’s business community.
It said the event also highlighted the important role played by the capital’s wholesale markets in supporting the country’s economy and supply network.
The association added that the experience underlined the need for better coordination between political organisers, market representatives and authorities when planning large public events.
SEEKS CONSIDERATION FOR TRADE CALENDAR, TRAFFIC
Clarifying its position, the Delhi Vyapar Mahasangh said it respects democratic rights and peaceful protests and believes every political party should have the freedom to put forward its views.
However, it stressed that this right must be accompanied by responsibility towards businesses, employment, ordinary citizens and the country’s economic activities.
The association said political events may last only a few hours, but the economic losses suffered by traders and the impact on customer confidence could be felt for much longer.
It urged authorities and organisers to consider Delhi’s business calendar, festive seasons, market footfall, goods supply and public convenience while deciding the dates and venues of future large-scale political gatherings.
“Politics has its place, and business and employment have theirs. A balance between the two is the hallmark of a strong, responsible and healthy democratic system,” the association said.
The statement was issued by Delhi Vyapar Mahasangh president Devraj Baweja and senior vice-president Rajendra Kapoor.
– Ends
SOURCE :- TIMES OF INDIA
