INDIA Bloc rally: Priyanka inspects Ramlila Maidan as Rahul urges marchers to support local traders
New Delhi: Preparations for the Opposition coalition's massive demonstration at New Delhi’s iconic Ramlila Maidan are entering their final stages. Senior Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra conducted a thorough inspection of the grounds to review logistical arrangements for the upcoming INDIA bloc mega rally.
The demonstration comes amid heightened political debate regarding potential commercial disruptions during the peak festive period. Addressing these concerns directly, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, issued an appeal on October 31 urging attendees to patronise local merchants while taking part in the event.
Countering rumours and supporting festive commerce
In a statement shared on X, Gandhi rejected claims that the congregation would adversely affect local businesses, attributing such narratives to the ruling party's political apprehensions. He urged marchers to combine their political participation with festive shopping for Diwali, Chhath and Bhai Dooj.
Extending his warm wishes to the public, Gandhi stated, “Namaskar, Tomorrow, lakhs of people are coming to Delhi for the Ramlila March. It is the festive season. The time of Diwali, Chhath, and Bhai Dooj has arrived. I want those lakhs of people coming to Delhi from outside to support the traders here. Protest, march, hold rallies, and along with that, do a little shopping too - it will benefit the traders. I know the rally will not harm the traders. The BJP is scared, that's why it's spreading rumors. But let's do both. Tomorrow there will be a march, there will be a rally, and lakhs of people will buy goods from the small shops of our traders. Much love to all of you. Happy Diwali. Jai Hind.”
The Congress leader's intervention comes after major commercial bodies, including the Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI) and the Federation of Sadar Bazar Traders Association, appealed to Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi to reschedule the demonstration to prevent footfall loss during the peak shopping period.
Focus of the demonstration
Led by the Indian National Congress alongside multiple coalition partners, the mega rally is organized to voice opposition against Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar and the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.
The political event has garnered widespread backing across regional lines. Delegations from several southern states, alongside prominent Chief Ministers and senior leaders from across the country, are expected to gather in the capital for the demonstration.
ANI