New Delhi: Traders across Delhi have announced a united and city-wide agitation against the unchecked spread of illegal street vending, accusing the administration of prolonged inaction that has crippled traditional markets and formal businesses.
The decision was taken at a crucial meeting attended by representatives of over 60 trader associations, led by the Delhi Hindustani Mercantile Association, one of the city’s oldest trade bodies with a legacy of over 133 years.
The meeting witnessed participation from major commercial hubs including Sadar Bazaar, Lajpat Rai Market, Bhagirath Palace, Ajmeri Gate, Chawri Bazaar, Paharganj, and areas around the Red Fort, where traders alleged that unauthorized hawkers now outnumber licensed shopkeepers.
“Markets Are Being Destroyed”
Speaking at the meeting, Shri Bhagwan Bansal, General Secretary of the Delhi Hindustani Mercantile Association, said that rampant encroachment by illegal hawkers has made it impossible for legitimate businesses to survive.
“Footpaths, roads, and even shop entrances have been occupied. Our markets are suffocating, and repeated complaints to authorities have gone unheard,” he said.
Traffic Chaos and Safety Risks
Baldev Kumar Gupta, President of the Delhi Steel & Hardware Association, highlighted the alarming congestion between Ajmeri Gate and Chawri Bazaar, stating that nearly 4,000–5,000 handcarts and rickshaws operate daily despite only about 400 having official permits.
He warned that traffic jams, blocked emergency access, and public safety risks have become routine in these areas.
“Trade Will Leave Delhi”
Ajay Sharma, President of the Electrical Market Association, Bhagirath Palace, cautioned that if the situation persists, Delhi’s organised trade will gradually shift to other states.
“Young traders no longer want to inherit family businesses because markets have become unmanageable and unsafe,” Sharma said.
Protest Plan Announced
Mukesh, President of the Delhi Market Association, announced a phased action plan agreed upon unanimously:
- All trader bodies will send formal letters on official letterheads to the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, Delhi Police, and the Ministry of Home Affairs
- A major protest march will begin on February 4 from Sadar Bazaar
- A large-scale march is planned from Red Fort to Fatehpuri
- Sit-ins, road demonstrations, and escalation of protests will follow if no concrete action is taken
Before launching the agitation, trader representatives plan to seek meetings with the Police Commissioner and MCD Commissioner to present their final demands.
A Long-Term Movement
Traders emphasized that this is not a symbolic protest but a long-term movement to reclaim market spaces, protect livelihoods, and restore order to Delhi’s commercial zones.
They warned that failure to act would force traders to intensify the agitation across the city and potentially at the state level.
The growing conflict between formal traders and illegal street vendors has emerged as a major urban governance challenge in Delhi. With the Delhi Hindustani Mercantile Association and more than 60 trade bodies joining forces, the movement signals a decisive push for administrative accountability.
As protests begin from February 4, the spotlight is now firmly on civic agencies and law-enforcement authorities to address encroachment, congestion, and the survival of Delhi’s historic markets.
