Connaught Place (CP), the heart of Delhi, has once again come under scrutiny over its long-standing encroachment problem after its verandas and corridors were cleared of illegal street vendors during recent international events, including the BRICS Summit 2026. The temporary clean-up has sparked a debate among traders and residents over why the iconic market can be kept encroachment-free during high-profile events but not throughout the year.
During recent international conferences, including the BRICS and earlier G20 summits, illegal street vendors were removed as part of heightened security and civic arrangements. With the encroachments cleared, CP’s verandas and corridors appeared clean and spacious, giving the iconic market a look reminiscent of the 1980s.
The corridors were free of vendors, while spaces for sitting and walking were clearly visible. Beggars and homeless people were also largely absent from the area, creating a stark contrast with the market's usual appearance.
Traders Raise Question
Local traders and Delhi residents have raised questions on social media over the functioning of the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) and Delhi Police.
They point out that if illegal encroachments can be cleared from the entire market for three to four days during visits by foreign delegates and guests, why can the same arrangements not be maintained for Delhi residents throughout the year?
“IF the encroachment and Hawkers can be removed during the G20 AND BRICS Summit, why not always? We wish to see the same Connaught Place every day. No hawking, no vending zone should always be maintained like this,” a user said, reacting to an X post.
The issue of illegal hawkers and vendors in Connaught Place is not new. The New Delhi Traders Association (NDTA) has been raising the matter through protests and legal battles for years.
The Delhi High Court and the Supreme Court have also issued orders concerning hawking and vending in Connaught Place, with the area being treated as a no-hawking and no-vending zone to protect its historical and architectural character. Despite these directions, traders allege that illegal stalls continue to appear on the verandas due to administrative lapses.
Traders Flag Inconvenience, Security Concerns
Local merchants say illegal vendors affect regular shoppers and obstruct pedestrian movement, particularly in already congested areas. They also argue that crowded and narrow spaces can create safety concerns.
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During major international events such as the G20 and BRICS summits, strict enforcement by Delhi Police and NDMC temporarily clears the area, allowing shoppers to move through the open verandas without obstruction.
Traders and residents are now demanding that this temporary enforcement be turned into a permanent arrangement. They want the authorities to strictly implement existing court directions and ensure that Connaught Place remains free of illegal encroachments throughout the year.