Ahead of the INDIA bloc rally scheduled at Delhi’s Ramlila Maidan on November 1, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, released a video appealing directly to citizens arriving in the capital. He urged attendees to participate in the rally and march while also taking out time to shop at local markets, helping small traders during the festive season.

Key Highlights of Rahul Gandhi's Video Message

Lakhs of people are expected to reach Delhi for the march at Ramlila Maidan.

Highlighting the ongoing festive atmosphere of Diwali, Chhath, and Bhai Dooj, he urged visitors to support local shopkeepers and business owners.

In his words: "Protest, march, hold rallies, but do a little shopping alongside. It will benefit the traders."

He called on participants to combine their political protest with a contribution toward strengthening the local economy.

Rahul Gandhi claimed that the demonstration would not cause financial loss to shopkeepers and accused the BJP of spreading rumors on the issue.

Merchants Express Discontent

Days prior to the event, 12 market associations in Delhi sent a joint letter to Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi requesting a postponement of the rally. Paramjit Singh Pamma, President of the Sadar Bazaar Bari Market Association, voiced strong resentment among local traders, urging a slight delay in the event schedule. Taking a dig, he remarked, "Rahul Gandhi claims to run a 'Mohabbat Ki Dukan' (shop of love), so why is he ruining our actual shops in the process?" Traders claimed that footfall had plummeted severely and customers were canceling bookings.

Note: Claims regarding financial losses reflect the position of the respective trade organizations, while Rahul Gandhi maintains that the rally will not harm local commerce.