Although the Supreme Court had directed not to mete out any form of atrocities towards the street vendors, the Imphal Municipal Corporation and police personnel continue to chase them away like animals, said All Manipur Street Vendors Federation secretary Sh Rajendro Meitei.
TFM Report
All Manipur Street Vendors Federation on Monday warned of moving the court if the government fails to look into the atrocities meted out to the street vendors by chasing them like some animals.
Speaking to media persons at the Manipur Press Club, secretary of the federation Sh Rajendro Meitei maintained that the street vendors have been facing problems ever since the Khwairamband Ima Keithel number 1, 2 and 3 were inaugurated. Although the Supreme Court had directed not to mete out any form of atrocities towards the street vendors, the Imphal Municipal Corporation and police personnel continue to chase them away like animals and the government continues to turn a blind eye, he added.
He questioned how the street vendors are going to repay the loan which has been provided by the government if they are not allowed to conduct their business. People are repenting against the BJP led government which they had high hopes for, he said and urged the government to provide a suitable place to conduct their business.
Although new markets and shops are being constructed in and around the Temporary Market and Lamphel SuperMarket, it cannot be ascertained whether the existing street vendors who have faced many difficulties for a long time would be accommodated or not, Rajendro lamented. He further expressed apprehension that some individuals with vested interests might take advantage of it. He also urged the concerned authorities to consult the federation in this regard.