New Delhi, 25 April (H.S): In response to the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) and over 100 trade organizations in Delhi organized a successful shutdown on Friday. Thousands of traders participated in a Sympathy March from Ghantaghar to the historic Red Fort, led by CAIT. MP Praveen Khandelwal emphasized that this march exemplified traders’ support for Prime Minister Modi’s firm anti-terrorism stance. Nearly all of Delhi’s 900 major wholesale and retail markets were shut down, demonstrating solidarity against terrorism, which resulted in the closure of around 800,000 businesses and a trade loss of approximately ₹1,500 crores.

During the shutdown, tribute and silent marches took place in various markets, where traders honored the victims of the attack and resolutely pledged to combat terrorism. Participants from the Hindustani Merchantile Association joined the march, uniformly calling for severing all trade ties with Pakistan and endorsing the government’s stringent measures. The CAIT Secretary General condemned terrorism sponsored by Pakistan and highlighted a resolution passed at the CAIT National Governing Council meeting in Bhubaneswar, forbidding exports and imports with Pakistan.

This unity among merchants transcends a mere trade shutdown; it signifies a commitment to support the government in safeguarding the nation’s security and dignity. They are prepared to actively engage in the battle against terrorism if necessary. Khandelwal also expressed gratitude to the Delhi police and administration for maintaining order during the protests, reporting a complete halt of business in major markets across the city.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar