Several markets in Delhi have decided to reopen on Sunday, urging traders to step up security and remain vigilant amid a tense situation following Saturday’s crackdown and heavy security deployment across the Capital. The decision comes as the CJP and student groups have called for another round of protests at Jantar Mantar on Sunday, raising concerns over potential disruptions during the festive shopping season.
We have asked the markets to re-open today but they must increase the vigilance. A lot of chaos was seen in Connaught Place on Saturday but we can’t keep asking people to shut their shops,” he added. “This is the festival season and a lot of stock purchases by traders have already been made. Deploy people near entrances to check no rowdy element is creating ruckus.
Atul Bhargava, who heads the New Delhi Traders Association (NDTA), said that a fresh advisory had been issued to markets.
Yesterday, we witnessed sharp drop in footfalls. “There was hardly any business yesterday. Ashok Kalra, general secretary of the Sarojini Nagar market, echoed the same sentiments, citing fears of business losses. “Navratri have started and this is the peak sale season for us. Our market is fully open and we urge customers to come. We are also urging police and authorities to help ensure normalcy,” he added. Not just retail trade, but including service sector, hospitality sector, transport, tourism, business has been affected across. Closure of markets during the festival has given a huge shock to traders.”
Brijesh Goyal, who heads the Chamber of Trade and Industries, said that retail markets would remain partially open due to uncertainty in the wake of the protests.
