Delhi: A heated political war of words has broken out between the Congress party and the Bharatiya Janata Party regarding calls for a political transition. Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh strongly criticized the opposition and certain civil society groups, alleging that Congress and its political allies are attempting to instigate a Bangladesh-like situation in India and exploit youth demonstrations to spread widespread anarchy.
Responding directly to these accusations, Congress leader Pawan Khera openly acknowledged that the opposition is indeed seeking a change of regime, while firmly emphasizing that within a democratic framework like India, such government transitions take place legitimately through elections. This ongoing controversy intensified in the wake of remarks made during a press conference held by representatives of Citizens for Justice and Peace, which included prominent figures such as Prashant Bhushan. The ruling party subsequently accused the opposition bloc of trying to leverage student movements to destabilize the administration.
Meanwhile, trade associations in Delhi, which include representatives from Khan Market and the Delhi Kirana Committee, have formally approached the Supreme Court seeking to intervene against the frequent agitations taking place in central areas of the capital. Local business owners reported that recurrent demonstrations paired with heavy police restrictions during the peak festive season have triggered substantial financial losses for the commercial sector.
Traders estimated that daily citywide retail and wholesale trade deficits are falling between 2,000 and 3,000 crore rupees. Shopkeepers raised mounting concerns regarding steep commercial rents, staff wages, and plunging customer footfalls driven by public apprehension surrounding the ongoing protests.
In response to the grievances raised by the commercial community, Cockroach Janata Party founder Abhijit Dipke asserted that local businesses do not suffer because of peaceful demonstrations, but rather because the government and police authorities implement severe blockades, suspend internet services, and unnecessarily restrict urban mobility. The Delhi Police noted that traffic restrictions remain in place around Connaught Place's Central Park, though retail markets across the area continue to stay open.