As the joyous Deepavali festival unfolds, creating bustling marketplaces, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has proactively intervened to safeguard the livelihoods of countless street vendors, hawkers, and pottery makers. The commission has issued urgent directives to the Chief Secretaries of all States and Union Territories, emphasizing the need to prevent any form of harassment or unwarranted eviction under the guise of encroachment during this crucial festive period.
The catalyst for this decisive action was a poignant complaint received on October 17th. NHRC member Priyank Kanoongo highlighted the allegations, which described “unnecessary and inhumane treatment” meted out to roadside vendors by municipal authorities in cities nationwide.
According to the complaint, vendors faced arbitrary evictions, often under the pretext of clearing pathways for emergency services like fire brigades and ambulances. Alarmingly, it also alleged a widespread pattern of civic bodies issuing challans and imposing penalties, which was perceived as an attempt to extort money. Such actions severely impede the vendors’ ability to conduct their vital business, especially during the economically significant Deepavali festival.
The NHRC’s notice underscored the gravity of the situation, stating that “the allegations made in the complaint prima facie seem to be violations of the human rights of the victims,” highlighting the urgent need for a humanitarian response.
Consequently, the Commission has instructed all State Chief Secretaries to thoroughly investigate these claims. Furthermore, it has explicitly directed all District Magistrates and municipal authorities to immediately cease such coercive practices, emphasizing that these actions directly contradict the government’s commendable ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative, which aims to support local businesses.
In its directive, the commission also mandated that authorities must implement appropriate fire safety measures in prominent locations to address any emergency situations effectively. Crucially, it specified that if vendors are displaced from footpaths, they must be offered suitable alternative spaces to continue their trade.
These alternative vending spots must also be fully equipped with necessary safety provisions. The NHRC strictly ordered that during the festive season, local administrations are prohibited from issuing challans, imposing penalties, seizing goods, or taking any other harsh measures against vendors, ensuring a protective environment for their commerce.
It is important to note that the commission clarified these directives are specifically tailored for the Deepavali festive season and do not constitute a year-round policy. To ensure compliance and accountability, the NHRC has requested Action Taken Reports (ATRs) from all States and Union Territories within a stringent two-week timeframe.