CAIT writes to Rahul Gandhi as protests in Delhi disrupt trade

The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) has written to the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, expressing "deep pain and anger" over the frequent disruptions to business activities caused by political rallies, protests, and demonstrations in Delhi over the past month. According to a report by News18, the traders' body has specifically raised questions regarding the India Block rally held at Ramlila Maidan on 1 November. It has been alleged that such gatherings have impacted businesses and the livelihoods of thousands of traders and workers.

In the letter addressed to Gandhi, CAIT questioned whether the "right to protest is more important than the right to trade and earn a livelihood". The organisation argued that political demonstrations should not come at the expense of business activities and the earnings of common citizens. The organisation further stated in the letter that they fully respect every citizen's constitutional right to freedom of expression, freedom of speech, and peaceful protest, as these are fundamental pillars of democracy. However, the right to protest cannot become an uncontrolled licence to disrupt business activities, obstruct public movement, or deprive millions of citizens of their right to earn a livelihood.

The traders' body cited Article 19(1)(g) of the Indian Constitution, which guarantees citizens the right to practice any profession, or to carry on any occupation, trade or business. The organisation argued that political parties supporting protest demonstrations should also consider the economic consequences of such rallies. Questioning the support given by various parties to the Congress rally on 1 November and demonstrations organised by different groups, CAIT stated that the frequent road blockades and protests over the last month have caused significant losses to Delhi's trading community, especially during the festive season.

Due to these obstructions, thousands of traders, shopkeepers, street vendors, transporters, daily wage earners, and their families have had to suffer losses. Additionally, the organisation highlighted the difficulties faced by customers and business visitors arriving in Delhi from various parts of the country. In the letter to Rahul Gandhi, CAIT also posed several questions, including whether he considers it politically and morally right to disrupt the commercial life of the national capital and who will compensate the traders and small businesses for these losses. The organisation also questioned the contradiction in Rahul Gandhi's appeal to people to shop from local markets, while the Congress party supports demonstrations that can prevent customers from reaching those very markets.

The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) is a comprehensive organisation of India's traders that works to protect the interests of traders and raise their issues.