Delhi Protests Hit Connaught Place Traders, Sparks Right To Earn vs Protest Row
Repeated protests and blockades in Delhi have hit commercial activity in Connaught Place, triggering a debate between the right to protest and the right to earn livelihoods. Traders, including the Delhi Kirana Committee, Khan Market traders body, and the New Delhi Traders Association, raised concerns over mounting losses, rent, and staff salaries. The issue reached the Supreme Court, where the Chief Justice of India acknowledged livelihood worries and noted that claims could be raised on October 26. Traders also wrote to Home Minister Amit Shah seeking restrictions on demonstrations in commercial hubs. Meanwhile, activists and opposition leaders argue that peaceful protests are a democratic right, placing the blame for disruptions on government restrictions and security shutdowns.