India
CAIT to Convene on Nov. 13 to Push for Outskirts Protest Sites
The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), headed by BJP MP Praveen Khandelwal, announced on Monday that it will hold a meeting on November 13 to discuss a proposal for designated protest sites on the outskirts of major cities. CAIT argues that prolonged political agitations in commercial hubs disrupt local businesses and harm the national economy. After the meeting, the body plans to approach the government and, if necessary, the courts to secure designated protest venues outside city centers.
In October, thousands of demonstrators took to the streets in Delhi amid metro closures, internet shutdowns, prohibitory orders and a deployment of 40,000 security personnel. The Centre ended Jantar Mantar’s status as Delhi’s long‑standing protest site on October 11, 2026, and directed the Delhi Police to denotify the venue. Three alternative locations—Ramlila Maidan in central Delhi, Burari Ground in north‑west Delhi and CBD Ground in east Delhi—have been named for future demonstrations.
The demand follows a large protest on November 1 by the INDIA bloc in central New Delhi, which criticized the ruling BJP and called for the removal of Kumar over alleged irregularities in the Election Commission of India’s operations. CAIT said the agitations caused “widespread disruption to business activities” in the capital.
Khandelwal stated that suitable locations should be designated on the outskirts of every city or at other appropriate places for protests and demonstrations. He added that the arrangement should be implemented nationwide, not just in Delhi, to allow peaceful demonstrations while protecting markets, commercial centres, transport routes and essential business activities. He highlighted that protests affect shopkeepers, sales, supply chains, the movement of goods, employees’ livelihoods and the cash flow of small businesses.
The meeting will also cover other matters such as GST reforms, protection against cyber fraud and simplification of regulations. CAIT national president BC Bhartia said discussions would focus on simplifying GST returns and compliance requirements, resolving technical difficulties and reducing unnecessary notices and litigation, especially for small traders.
The Kirana Committee Delhi and other traders’ bodies, represented by senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, have already approached the Supreme Court, arguing that businesses in parts of the capital suffered due to demonstrations, particularly during the festive season. Rohatgi told the bench that Ramlila Ground, now a designated protest site along with three others, is close to Connaught Place and that the surrounding area hosts millions of residents, shops and commercial establishments. He urged the court to consider a solution that protects the right to trade and earn a livelihood, including that of small traders, daily‑wage workers and transport operators, and requested a two‑month ban on protests and dharnas in Delhi, whether held with or without permission.
Frequently asked questions
When is CAIT planning to hold its meeting?
On November 13.
What is the purpose of the CAIT meeting?
To discuss a proposal for designated protest sites on the outskirts of major cities and plan to approach the government and courts if necessary.
Which alternative protest sites were named in Delhi after Jantar Mantar was denotified?
Ramlila Maidan, Burari Ground, and CBD Ground.