AnyTime News 
Traders Protest in Shastri Nagar Against Demolition Drive
Anytime News Network – By Pooja Srivastava
A large delegation of traders from Shastri Nagar Scheme No. 7 staged a strong protest under the leadership of Tiranga Chowk Traders’ Association President Manoj Kumar Garg. The group reached the camp office of BJP Trade Cell State President Vineet Agarwal Sharda in Shastri Nagar and raised serious concerns over the ongoing and proposed demolition actions.
The traders highlighted that over 250 businesses have already been shut down, while nearly 550 more are facing imminent closure and demolition threats. Calling it a “life-and-death situation,” Garg said the traders are left with no clarity on their future.
“We have been running our businesses for the last 25–30 years from small residential spaces, paying house tax, commercial tax, water tax, and GST regularly. What is our fault?” he questioned emotionally.
The traders argued that while encroachers on government land have been rehabilitated, small shop owners operating from their own properties are being targeted. “We are not criminals. We have not stolen or committed any offense. Our only ‘mistake’ is earning a livelihood to support our families,” Garg added.
Responding to the agitation, Vineet Agarwal Sharda assured the traders of full support. “Traders are my strength. Wherever a trader suffers, I stand with them. I am committed to resolving your issues,” he said.
He also emphasized respect for the upcoming Supreme Court decision while assuring that the BJP government will stand firmly with the traders and ensure justice.
Following the assurance, the traders expressed satisfaction and dispersed peacefully. Prominent members present included Sachin Verma, Mohit Batra, Sanjay Verma, Pradeep Sharma, Surendra Chauhan, and others.
