Chandni Chowk traders slam police over vendors’ rally

Chandni Chowk traders criticised the Delhi Police for permitting a protest march by street vendors in Old Delhi, saying the rally disrupted business activity and public movement in the crowded market area. The traders’ body, Chandni Chowk Nagrik Manch, alleged that many participants were occupying public spaces and demanded stricter enforcement against what it described as illegal encroachments.

According to the organisation, nearly 300 people took part in the procession, which moved from Town Hall to the Red Fort and passed through key stretches of Chandni Chowk and Jama Masjid. The traders claimed that repeated demonstrations in the Walled City were creating difficulties for shopkeepers and local residents.

Also Read : Mark Carney’s India Visit Signals Major Reset in Canada-India Relations

Vendors demand Street Vendors Act implementation as traders raise encroachment concerns

Street vendors’ groups had called the protest to press for full implementation of the Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act, 2014. Protesters argued that delays in enforcing the law had left many vendors vulnerable to eviction drives and harassment, and they demanded formal recognition of their vending rights.

However, trader representatives maintained that authorities must balance vendors’ concerns with the need to keep public pathways clear. They urged the Delhi Police, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, and the Delhi government to take coordinated action to address congestion and regulate vending activities in the historic market zone.

Also Read : Meerut Rapid Train Crosses 1 Lakh Riders on Day One