Shillong: Shillong shop owners are digging in their heels against Blinkit. They joined the VPP-led Executive Committee of the KHADC to block the delivery giant from restarting operations in the city. The traders claim a previous three-month stint by the company in 2025 gutted their bottom lines.
Andrew Nongkynrih, speaking for the local business group, said sales dropped by half at many shops. Roughly 40 establishments folded during that window. The ripple effect hits wholesalers, drivers, and delivery staff. These workers represent 20 percent of the city population.
Nongkynrih emphasized that local shops pay taxes and keep money circulating within Meghalaya. He argued that corporate outsiders siphon off profits while offering little in return. Many young entrepreneurs who took out loans to launch businesses now fear they will be forced to close. "The central question is whether the public wants traditional neighbourhood shops, which have sustained families for generations, to disappear for the sake of the convenience of ten-minute deliveries," Samran Syiem said.
Syiem claims Blinkit uses investor cash to subsidize deep discounts and free shipping. Neighborhood retailers cannot compete with these tactics. He clarified that the group does not oppose technology. Instead, they want a model that partners with local stores rather than wiping them off the map.
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