IT News
Imphal, Jan 18:
The Roadside Vendors’ Welfare Association (RSVWA), Khwairamband Ima Keithel, marked its 27th Foundation Day today with a celebration held at Rupmahal Theater (Imphal Talkies). The event was graced by prominent personalities, including Shaktiman Gosh, General Secretary of the National Hawkers Federation, New Delhi; Nando Luwang, President of AMUCO; Oinam (O) Bilashini Devi, President of MAKPAL; Ima Jano Begum, Advisor, RSVWA; Kh. Ibetombi Devi, Advisor, RSVWA; and Kshtri Tama Devi, President of RSVWA, who served as presidium members for the occasion.
As part of the observance, the association submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister of Manipur, urging the immediate implementation of the Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act, 2014 in the state. The memorandum emphasized the importance of the Act in protecting the rights and livelihoods of over five crore street vendors across the country, while criticizing the lack of enforcement in Manipur despite the Act being in effect for 11 years. The association expressed concern over the vulnerability of street vendors, who continue to face challenges without government assistance or legal protection.
The memorandum pointed out that while surveys of street vendors were conducted in some cities before the Act was enacted, Town Vending Committees (TVCs) were not formed. In other instances, temporary TVCs established prior to the Act’s implementation have been functioning for over 11 years, contrary to the Act’s stipulation of a five-year term. Additionally, vending certificates, which are mandated by the Act, have not been issued, and the circular issued by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs on June 6, 2019, remains unimplemented across the state.
The association also strongly condemned the eviction of street vendors in Imphal city, calling such actions inhumane and unjust. While acknowledging the central government’s schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Swanidhi Yojana, which provides loans to street vendors, the memorandum criticized the failure to enforce the hawker law, stating that this contradicted the government’s claims of supporting the poor and marginalized. The association noted that even Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has often spoken about his experience as a tea vendor, has not ensured justice for street hawkers.
The RSVWA called on the state government to immediately implement the Street Vendors Act, enforce the provisions of Section 3(3) to prevent action against vendors, and establish temporary TVCs to draft a comprehensive plan under Section 38 of the Act. The association also demanded that vending certificates be issued as per the law and warned of intensified protests if their demands are not addressed. The association reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for the rights of street vendors, emphasizing their vital role in the economy and society.
