Over 900 Delhi markets shut as traders observe bandh over Pahalgam attack

NEW DELHI: Major shopping centres in Delhi, including Connaught Place, Sadar Bazar and Chandni Chowk, along with over 900 other markets, remained closed on Friday as traders participated in a 'Delhi Bandh' to protest the Pahalgam terror attack. Various trade groups representing textiles, spices, utensils and bullion sectors suspended their operations.
The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) reported that more than 8 lakh shops in Delhi participated in the closure, leading to an estimated trade loss of Rs 1,500 crore for the day.


The Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI) announced the bandh on Thursday. They had previously organised a candle march in Connaught Place to show support for the attack victims, which claimed 26 lives, predominantly tourists.
"This is not just a protest; it is a collective stand against terrorism. We are all united in this fight and are observing the bandh in memory of those who lost their lives in Pahalgam," Brijesh Goyal, Chairperson of the CTI, said on Friday.

Goyal urged the government to terminate commercial relations with Pakistan and implement a ban on Pakistani products in India.
A representative from the Sadar Bazar traders' association noted that the typically crowded market was empty, with even vegetable and fruit sellers absent from their usual spots.
The Gandhinagar market, recognised as Asia's largest wholesale readymade garment centre, also observed complete closure, according to the market association's statement.
"The shutdown is being held to demand justice for the tourists killed in the attack and to stand united against terrorism," it said.
The Pahalgam incident on Tuesday marked the most severe attack in Jammu and Kashmir since the 2019 Pulwama event.