Two die in Delhi traders' protest

Police used bamboo sticks and tear gas to disperse crowds

Two people have been killed during violent protests in the Indian capital, Delhi, over moves by the authorities to close illegal businesses, police say.

Several dozen people were also hurt as angry shopkeepers clashed with police firing tear gas and wielding batons. Traffic came to a standstill in places.

The courts have ordered city officials to close businesses operating unlawfully in residential areas.

Traders say the drive will affect the livelihoods of at least 500,000 people.

One of those killed died after police fired tear gas at protesters who had thrown stones.

It is not yet clear how the second person died. A senior police officer was also injured during the violence.

Appeal for calm

Shops and businesses in parts of the city remained closed on Wednesday as part of the protest strike.

Clashes turned violent in several places

Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit has expressed regret over the violence and has appealed for calm.

The municipal authorities began sealing shops in residential areas last year after the Supreme Court ordered a ban on illegal businesses to be enforced.

Protests across Delhi have since become widespread.

The main opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has appealed to the Supreme Court to review its ruling.

The governing Congress party says it is trying to find a solution for those affected.

Traders say municipal authorities often take money from the poor and the middle-class in return for turning a blind eye to illegal constructions or encroachments on public land.

Some of the city's most talked about fashion designers brazenly open ritzy boutiques in illegal buildings and then feign ignorance.

At least a couple of such prestigious fashion malls were demolished earlier this year because they were operating illegally.