Shillong, July 3: Hawkers under the banner of Shillong Roadside Hawkers Association (SRHA) has demanded immediate suspension of the eviction drive and revocation of “no-vending zone” status of Khyndailad (Police Bazar), further complicating resolution of the issue of hawkers in the city.
SRHA, in a petition to Shillong Municipal Board (SMB) on Wednesday, demanded the commercial hub of the city to be recognised as a “natural market”.
The eviction drive and relocation of street vendors to MUDA complex violate the Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act, 2014, said SRHA president T Nongbri in the petition.
The association claimed that the government’s notification declaring Khyndailad a “no vending zone” is invalid due to lack of justification for an urgent public purpose.
Nongbri also pointed out that the MUDA complex is unfit for vending as it lacks essential infrastructure, including toilets, water, shelter, and lighting.
The SRHA has urged the SMB to evaluate alternative sites for vending, conduct a fresh survey to issue Certificates of Vending (CoVs) to genuine vendors, and provide compensation to affected vendors.
The association has requested a response and corrective action within 30 days to protect the livelihoods of its members.
Nongbri emphasized that Police Bazaar qualifies as a natural market under the Act, exempting it from no-vending zone declarations unless an urgent public purpose is proven.
“Police Bazaar qualifies as a natural market under First Schedule 3 (a), exempting it from no-vending zone declarations unless an urgent public purpose is proven.”
According to Nongbri, the association is open to dialogue to resolve the concerns and ensure compliance with the Act.
