Table of Contents
Delhi is on silent protest. In the wake of the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, over 100 major markets across the national capital have shut down today in a powerful and emotional bandh led by traders, retailers, and market associations.
This unprecedented move, coordinated by the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), marks a boiling point in public anger and is now the focus of national attention.
The bandh is being observed to mourn the 26 innocent lives lost in Tuesday’s brutal ambush — most of them tourists — and to demand stronger action against terror emanating from across the border.
National Capital in Mourning
From the buzzing lanes of Chandni Chowk to the upscale outlets of Khan Market — shutters are down, banners are up, and the streets carry an eerie silence.
“We are not just shutting shops. We are shutting down to say we’ve had enough,” said CAIT Secretary General Praveen Khandelwal.
“Terrorism can’t keep bleeding India. This is not just Delhi’s pain — it’s India’s pain.”
The bandh is not a strike—it is a public statement. One that echoes from Karol Bagh to Lajpat Nagar, from Connaught Place to Sadar Bazar.
What’s Closed, What’s Open
While the trader-led protest has seen massive participation, essential services and daily commuting remain unaffected:
OPEN: Hospitals, Metro Rail, Banks, Government Offices, Schools
CLOSED: Over 100 trade markets, most wholesale and retail shops
Delhi Police has ensured smooth law and order, deploying additional personnel around protest zones to maintain peace.
Pain That United a City
This latest India news story comes just days after a horrific act of terror shocked the nation. On April 22, gunmen believed to be associated with The Resistance Front (TRF) — a proxy of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) — opened fire on civilians in Pahalgam, killing 26 and injuring dozens.
It is the deadliest terror strike in Kashmir since Pulwama 2019, and it has triggered massive diplomatic and public backlash.
The Indian government has already retaliated by:
- Suspending the Indus Waters Treaty
- Closing the Wagah-Attari Border
- Expelling Pakistani diplomats
- Cancelling SAARC visas for Pakistani nationals
Now, India’s traders — the very backbone of the economy — have spoken in their own voice.
“Enough is Enough”: Business Community Roars
Shopkeepers stood outside their closed establishments holding candles and placards reading “India First, Terror Never Again.”
In several locations, marches were held, slogans were raised, and silent prayers were observed.
“We’ve seen Pulwama, Uri, Pathankot, and now Pahalgam. We want peace, but peace without action is surrender,” said Rajesh Gupta, a trader in Lajpat Nagar.
Ground Zero Coverage by The Instant News
As this breaking news unfolds in real-time, The Instant News is on-ground to bring you the raw emotions, national outrage, and the collective stand of citizens against terrorism.
This isn’t just Delhi’s story. It’s India’s cry for justice.
For live updates, exclusive visuals, and the most reliable source of latest India news, stay connected with The Instant News — where truth meets urgency.
