Delhi Protests Could Put Rs 4,000 Crore in Daily Business at Risk Over 10 Days: CAIT

October 18, 2026

New Delhi: Prolonged protests in Delhi could put business transactions worth around Rs 400 crore at risk every day, with the potential exposure reaching Rs 4,000 crore over 10 days if disruptions continue, the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) said on Sunday.

CAIT Secretary General and Chandni Chowk MP Praveen Khandelwal said traffic disruptions, transport delays and reduced customer movement could affect trading activity across the capital. The impact could be particularly significant during the festive and wedding season, when markets usually see higher business activity.

Khandelwal clarified that the figures are estimates of business activity that could be affected, not confirmed financial losses.

According to CAIT’s assessment, Delhi records average daily business turnover of around Rs 2,200 crore. A 10 per cent drop in activity would put transactions worth Rs 220 crore at risk each day. At a 15 per cent decline, the figure would rise to Rs 330 crore, while a 20 per cent fall could put around Rs 440 crore in daily business at risk.

If disruptions continue and business activity is affected at the higher end of these estimates, the cumulative exposure could approach Rs 4,000 crore over 10 days, Khandelwal said.

Traders Warn of Wider Impact on Markets and Supply Chains

Khandelwal said Delhi is a major centre for wholesale distribution, retail trade and commercial activity, with markets connecting manufacturers, distributors, retailers and consumers across the country.

He warned that extended disruptions in the capital could affect not only local traders but also supply chains and businesses that depend on Delhi’s markets. Restricted access to commercial areas and difficulties in moving goods could add to the pressure on traders during an important period for sales.

CAIT Says Right to Protest Must Be Balanced with Trade

Khandelwal acknowledged that the Constitution protects citizens’ right to freedom of speech and peaceful assembly. However, he said traders should also be able to operate their businesses and earn their livelihoods without avoidable disruption.

“The right to protest and the right to trade are both integral to a functioning democracy,” Khandelwal said, arguing that protecting one should not come at the cost of disregarding the other.

He called for a responsible approach that respects democratic expression and the rule of law while allowing commercial activity to continue.

CAIT’s warning comes amid concerns over the possible economic consequences of prolonged protests in Delhi. The actual impact on businesses will depend on the duration and extent of disruptions to traffic, transport and access to markets.