Viral reels and posts claiming that Delhi’s iconic Sarojini Nagar Market has been demolished are misleading, shopkeepers say, as they battle declining footfall triggered by panic-inducing social media content.
While a midnight demolition drive by the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) did take place over the weekend, licensed shops remain untouched and open. The drive was reportedly aimed at removing illegal encroachments, but confusion sparked by visuals of bulldozers tearing into the market has led many to falsely believe that Sarojini is being dismantled entirely.
According to eyewitness accounts and shopkeeper associations:
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NDMC officials and bulldozers arrived late Saturday night
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The operation targeted unauthorized hawkers and encroachments, not permanent stores
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However, some licensed vendors claim their shops were mistakenly damaged
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The drive was originally meant to address shopkeeper complaints about hawker congestion
“We ourselves had requested action against encroachers,” says Ashok Randhawa, president of the Sarojini Nagar Mini Market Traders Association.
“But instead, some of our shops were targeted, which wasn’t the intended plan.”
In the aftermath of the demolition, Instagram reels and social media posts showing bulldozers in action gave rise to widespread panic. Many regular shoppers began mourning what they believed to be the loss of a Delhi institution.
One user commented, “No way Sarojini Market is being demolished. Where will I shop for my college wardrobe now?”
These viral claims have led to a significant drop in customer footfall, affecting already vulnerable shopkeepers.
“We’ve lost more to the misinformation than the demolition itself,” said Ashok Kalra, president of the Sarojini Market Shopkeepers Association.
To fight the misinformation wave, the Sarojini Market Shopkeepers Association issued a public clarification on X (formerly Twitter):
“The market is open and welcoming shoppers as always. Please don’t believe in the baseless rumours.”
They have called on Delhiites and tourists alike to return, assuring that Sarojini is not being shut down and remains one of the most vibrant and affordable fashion hubs in the capital.
