Shillong: A delegation of around 200 registered hawkers and street vendors from Shillong’s iconic Khyndailad met with Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar to discuss their impending relocation.
The meeting, held recently, aimed to address concerns and seek a viable solution for the vendors.
During the meeting, Deputy CM Dhar assured the hawkers of the government’s commitment to finding a suitable relocation site. He emphasized the importance of cooperation between the government and the vendors to ensure a smooth transition.
“We understand the challenges faced by the hawkers. The government is working diligently to find a solution that is beneficial to all stakeholders,” said Dhar, while speaking to reporters.
He also acknowledged the ongoing debate surrounding the relocation, stating that the final decision would be made with the convenience of the hawkers in mind.
However, the Deputy CM clarified that the new location would be designated only for officially registered vendors, aligning with government regulations.
The relocation issue has been a point of contention between the government and the hawkers’ association. In November, tensions escalated when vendors staged late-night protests against the proposed relocation, questioning the government’s consultation process.
The Meghalaya & Greater Shillong Progressive Hawkers and Street Vendors Association strongly refuted claims of prior consultations, asserting that the government’s approach was “willfully misleading.” The vendors’ defiance was evident in their continued operations until late hours, demanding the proper implementation of street vending laws.
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