The INDIA bloc is set to hold a major protest rally at Delhi's Ramlila Maidan on Sunday, November 1, under its ‘Chalo Dilli’ campaign against alleged electoral irregularities. Ahead of the demonstration, Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi has appealed to people travelling to the national capital to support local traders by shopping at small businesses during the festive season.
In a video message shared on social media on Saturday, Rahul Gandhi urged the expected participants to combine their protest activities with shopping in Delhi's local markets. Referring to the upcoming festivals of Diwali, Chhath and Bhai Dooj, he said that people arriving from different parts of the country should take the opportunity to support local traders.
He said that participants could protest, march and attend the rally while also purchasing goods from small shops. According to Gandhi, such an initiative would help local businesses and ensure that traders benefit from the large gathering.
His appeal comes amid concerns raised by sections of Delhi's trading community over the possible impact of the rally on business activities. The Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI) had urged opposition leaders to postpone the November 1 demonstration until after November 11, citing the importance of the festive shopping period.
According to the traders' association, nearly 20 major wholesale and retail markets in central and Old Delhi could face disruption. The organisation estimated that daily business worth approximately ₹10,000-12,000 crore could be affected. Markets such as Connaught Place and Chandni Chowk are among the commercial areas where traders have expressed concern.
Meanwhile, the INDIA bloc has projected a massive turnout, with nearly 10 lakh people expected to participate. However, Delhi Police has planned arrangements for approximately 50,000 people, considering the capacity of Ramlila Maidan.
The main march is scheduled to begin at noon from the Minto Road-Connaught Place junction and proceed towards Ramlila Maidan. The rally at the venue is scheduled between 10 am and 5 pm.
The protest is primarily aimed at raising allegations of irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Opposition parties have accused the Election Commission of failing to ensure transparency in the electoral process. These allegations have been rejected by the ruling side.
Security arrangements have been significantly strengthened across central Delhi, with thousands of police and paramilitary personnel deployed. Traffic restrictions and diversions will also remain in place from 10 am to 5 pm in several areas.
The rally is expected to bring together opposition leaders, party workers, students and civil society representatives from different parts of the country.
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