The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has called upon the Chief Secretaries of all states and union territories to take immediate action to protect the livelihoods of street vendors, hawkers, traditional artisans, and small traders as the festive season approaches. This directive comes as the nation prepares for significant occasions such as Navratri, Diwali, and Chhath Puja, which typically see a surge in local trading activities.
The NHRC emphasized the importance of safeguarding the rights of these local vendors while stressing the need for public and fire safety during the busy festive months of October and November. The Commission specifically addressed street vendors, footpath traders, hawkers, and sellers of various traditional goods, including pottery, local sweets, and rangoli colors, ensuring that their livelihoods remain protected during this time.
In its directive, the NHRC made it clear that vendors should not be displaced or obstructed from their trading activities without justified cause. The Commission urged local administrations to foster local trades and support the government's "Vocal for Local" initiative by promoting locally made products againt a backdrop of heightened commercial activities in public spaces.
Should relocation of vendors be necessary—due to concerns regarding emergency access or safety mandates—the NHRC insisted that local authorities must provide suitable alternative vending spaces. This measure aims to ensure that such relocations do not adversely impact the livelihoods of the vendors involved.
Moreover, the NHRC instructed local bodies to avoid arbitrary actions against street vendors, specifically prohibiting unnecessary seizures of goods during the festive season. Any necessary actions against vendors must adhere strictly to legal frameworks and consider the economic realities that these vendors face.
Complaints related to harassment or coercion of vendors have raised alarms in previous years, prompting the NHRC to demand prompt investigations into such incidents. The Commission has reiterated that any complaints of extortion or undue interference against vendors should be addressed swiftly by the relevant authorities.
These fresh directives follow the NHRC's intervention last year when there were multiple reports of local vendors facing unjust displacement and harassment during similar festive periods. In those instances, there were complaints about the seizure of goods and arbitrary fines being imposed.
Recognizing the need for continued vigilance, the NHRC has directed the Chief Secretaries to ensure that these directives are widely circulated and effectively implemented across all relevant local authorities, including District Magistrates and Police Superintendents, throughout the festive season.
To ensure compliance and address any outstanding issues, the Commission has asked for additional Action Taken Reports (ATRs) regarding ongoing matters to be submitted by October 18. This call to action reflects the NHRC's commitment to uphold the rights and livelihoods of local vendors during critical trading times.
Source
Edited with AI assistance.
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