Commercial establishments across Connaught Place in New Delhi, including shops, offices, and restaurants, were ordered to cease operations by 6:30 PM on Thursday, July 23, 2026. This directive was issued amidst continued protests by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) in the national capital.
NDMC Issues Early Closure Advisory
The New Delhi Traders Association (NDTA) President, Atul Bhargava, conveyed the instruction, stating it came telephonically from the NDMC Chairman and Vice Chairman. The advisory urged traders to comply to prevent any “unpleasant situation” or potential “loss of property and injury” due to the critical situation around Connaught Place.
Kejriwal Questions Centre Amid Security Measures
Former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal reacted to the advisory on social media, questioning the Central government's handling of the situation. He highlighted the intense security and presence of ambulances, asking if the Modi government intended to “brutally attack its own children at Jantar Mantar today.”
Traders Report Significant Business Losses
Separately, the Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI) appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to establish new guidelines for large-scale protests in Delhi. CTI Chairman Brijesh Goyal proposed a permanent protest venue in Outer Delhi for gatherings exceeding 1,000 people, citing severe disruptions to business activity.
According to a CTI survey, business activity in the area has plummeted by nearly 70% over the past three days. The sharp decline in footfall, from both local residents and outstation visitors, is attributed to the closure of 16 Metro stations and extensive traffic restrictions around Jantar Mantar, Connaught Place, and adjacent areas.