Markets across Delhi wore a deserted look on Friday as traders observed a shutdown to protest the recent terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives earlier this week. Over 100 market associations—spanning Sadar Bazaar, Bhagirath Place, Chandni Chowk, Khari Baoli, and Jama Masjid—joined the bandh to demand justice for the victims of the brutal assault.
Trader groups from key sectors including textiles, spices, utensils, and bullion also took part in the closure, marking a unified stand. “This is not just a protest; it is a collective stand against terrorism. We are all united in this fight and are observing the bandh in memory of those who lost their lives in Pahalgam,” said Brijesh Goyal, Chairperson of the Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI).
#WATCH | Delhi: Markets in Chandni Chowk are shut as traders call for a 'Bandh' to protest against #PahalgamTerrorAttack pic.twitter.com/7JMWXZkuMb
— ANI (@ANI) April 25, 2025
He further urged the government to sever trade relations with Pakistan and enforce a ban on Pakistani goods in India.
Similar demonstrations were witnessed in Rajasthan and other states like Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra, where markets remained shut in solidarity.
In a rare move, Kashmir itself observed a complete shutdown on Wednesday — the first in 35 years — with locals taking to the streets to denounce terrorism and mourn the victims.
The attack, which unfolded in Baisaran, also known as “mini Switzerland” for its picturesque views of pine forests and Himalayan peaks, killed 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali tourist, marking one of the deadliest terror strikes in the region since the 2019 Pulwama attack.
