The impact of the ongoing student protest at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar is now clearly visible in the heart of the capital, i.e. Connaught Place (CP), the country’s largest business centre. Amidst the continuous protests and increasing concerns over security, the New Delhi Traders Association (NDTA) has taken a very big and tough decision. The association has decided to keep all the shops of Connaught Place closed at 6:30 pm today. Traders say that at present this step has been taken only for today, but the next decision will be taken only after reviewing the situation in the coming days.
There has been a huge decline in business since July 20
According to Atul Bhargava, President of New Delhi Traders Association, after the incident of July 20, the entire business of Connaught Place has been badly affected. He claims that during this period there has been a huge decline of about 70 percent in business. He said that common customers are avoiding coming to the market due to fear of safety, due to which shopkeepers are facing huge financial losses.
Atul Bhargava also informed that in view of this serious situation, New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) had also advised to take necessary steps in view of security. Following this advice, all the traders mutually decided that the shops should be closed before their scheduled time, so that any untoward incident can be avoided.
“Our real concern is not about students, but about anti-social elements”
While representing the traders, Atul Bhargava made it clear that the trade association or the shopkeepers have no objection or hostility towards any demonstration by the students. Their main concern is that under the guise of these demonstrations, some anti-social elements have also become active, due to which there is a big threat to the law and order and security of the area. He said clearly, “We have no problem with the students of the country, but some anti-social elements have entered into their movement, and this is a matter of biggest concern for us.”
Demand for solution arising from talks between government and students
The NDTA President made a strong appeal to the Central Government and said that the solution to the current tense situation should be found only through mutual dialogue. He advised the government to leave its stubborn stance and immediately communicate with the students, so that the situation in the city can become normal as soon as possible and the stalled business of the capital can be brought back on track.
Big questions raised regarding online food delivery
Atul Bhargava also expressed deep apprehension regarding the continuous online food delivery around the protest site. He said in a questioning tone that the way food orders are being delivered in huge quantities online, it raises suspicion that not only the protesting students but also some outsiders are supporting this system in some way or the other. However, he also admitted that he had no concrete evidence to prove this.
At present, all the traders of Connaught Place say that their first and foremost priority is the safety of their customers, shop staff and the shopkeepers themselves. Until the situation becomes completely stable, they will continue to take necessary steps in coordination with the administration.
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