CPI(M) Resists Hindutva Attempts to Disrupt Delhi's Social Fabric
New Delhi, April 10, 2025: In a significant show of resistance, the Communist Party of India (Marxist) South Delhi Local Committee and the Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI) have pushed back against escalating attempts by Hindutva elements to disrupt the livelihoods and food culture in Delhi. Over the past two days, coordinated attacks have targeted fish and meat markets in CR Park and Kalkaji, raising concerns over the emboldened actions of such groups under BJP governance.
Kalkaji Indra Fish and Chicken Market, Govindpuri
This long-standing market, a hub for local vendors for nearly five decades, has been a target of demolition attempts in the past. Despite a 2016 Delhi High Court order clearly stating that “No shops should be demolished until the survey work is completed,” authorities proceeded to raze parts of the market on April 7, 2025.
- Officials from the Public Works Department (PWD), Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), and Delhi Police cited ownership disputes as justification for the demolition, claiming complaints from nearby residents of DDA flats prompted their action.
- CPI(M) leaders have labeled this move as a blatant violation of the High Court order, emphasizing the lack of due process and consultation with affected vendors.
- The situation was further inflamed by CR Park AAP Councillor Ashu Thakur’s controversial social media posts taking credit for the demolition, which has drawn sharp criticism from the CPI(M) and the local community.
- The CPI(M) has vowed to intensify efforts at the MCD and PWD levels to mobilize affected shopkeepers, ensuring their rights and livelihoods are defended through legal and political channels.
CR Park Market 1, Fish Market
The CR Park market, renowned for its fish vendors serving the city’s Bengali community, witnessed an organized attempt to force its closure on April 9, 2025:
- Witnesses reported a group of individuals in saffron attire attempting to intimidate shopkeepers and disrupt business operations. However, the vendors stood united, successfully preventing the mob from entering the market.
- A formal complaint has been filed with the Market Association to address the incident and safeguard against future disturbances.
CPI(M)’s Response and Call to Action
CPI(M) South Delhi Secretary Kavita Sharma condemned these incidents as calculated moves to impose cultural and dietary uniformity, using religion as a pretext.
“These attacks on livelihoods and the cultural diversity of Delhi’s residents are unacceptable. The CR Park councillor’s complicity in such actions is disgraceful. The CPI(M) will stand resolute against these forces seeking to divide society and disrupt harmony,” Sharma asserted.
The CPI(M) and DYFI delegation emphasized the growing threat posed by Hindutva groups using communal rhetoric to marginalize specific communities. They reiterated their commitment to:
- Provide legal assistance to affected shopkeepers.
- Mobilize community support to protect livelihoods.
- Hold authorities accountable for violating court orders and enabling such actions.
A Broader Pattern of Intimidation
These incidents in CR Park and Kalkaji reflect a troubling trend of emboldened Hindutva activities across Delhi since the BJP’s rise to power in the region. Similar instances of targeting dietary preferences and livelihoods have been reported, raising alarms about the erosion of Delhi’s pluralistic ethos.
The CPI(M) has called on all democratic forces to unite in resisting these divisive attempts and ensuring that Delhi remains a city of coexistence and diversity.
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