Traders operating in and around Connaught Place on Thursday expressed concern over the impact of frequent protests and demonstrations in central Delhi, saying such events severely disrupt business activity and make it difficult for them to cover operating expenses, including staff salaries.

Business owners said the effects of protests extend well beyond the day of the demonstration. Ayush Chopra, owner of Bhape Da Hotel and Meenar Restaurant in Connaught Place, said commercial activity begins to slow several days before a major protest as people avoid travelling to the area out of concern over traffic restrictions and disruptions.

He said customer footfall drops significantly as people prefer to stay indoors. Even after a protest ends, business remains sluggish for several days because videos circulating on social media continue to fuel public apprehension.

Chopra noted that while revenues fall sharply during such periods, businesses must continue to pay fixed expenses, including rent, electricity bills and employee salaries, creating financial strain. He added that the disruption affects not only large establishments but also small vendors and local businesses, which suffer from reduced customer traffic.

Calling for a long-term solution, Chopra suggested that authorities shift large-scale demonstrations away from central Delhi and designate a dedicated venue for protests to prevent disruptions to commercial activity.

Varjesh Agrawal, owner of Bengali Sweet House and Pastry Shop, echoed these concerns, saying business during the recent protest period fell to less than half its normal level. He said customer movement remained weak for several days, while traffic restrictions further hurt trade in the area.

The concerns follow a major protest in Delhi on October 10, which triggered heavy congestion across parts of central Delhi. Authorities imposed traffic restrictions and closed several key routes to maintain law and order, disrupting daily business operations at both small and large establishments in the area.

Local traders said they respect the right to protest, but repeated disruptions in one of the capital’s busiest commercial hubs directly affect sales, customer footfall and overall business confidence.