Wed Apr 09 19:25:48 UTC 2025: ## Govindpuri Fish Sellers Face Closure During Navratri

**New Delhi, April 10, 2025** – Fish sellers in Govindpuri, Delhi, are facing financial hardship after being forced to close their stalls for the nine days of Navratri. Thirty-seven vendors claim they were ordered by police to cease operations on March 28th, a move they say is unprecedented in the market’s 35-year history. While other vendors selling vegetables and clothes remain unaffected, the fish sellers allege they are being unfairly targeted.

Following their attempt to reopen on April 8th, the vendors report that Public Works Department (PWD) officials placed roadblocks, threatening further action. The Delhi police and PWD have yet to respond to requests for comment.

The closures stem from a statement by BJP MLA Karnail Singh in an Assembly session, claiming that selling meat in public spaces during Navratri offends religious sentiments. PWD Minister Parvesh Sahib Singh subsequently announced the removal of all meat and fish vendors from public spaces.

Now, facing severe financial losses, the fish sellers are attempting to adapt by offering home delivery services. However, many report earning nothing since the closure, particularly impacting daily wage labourers who previously worked at the stalls.

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