National Hawker Federation Marks Street Vendor Abolition Protest Day

Street Vendors in Jamshedpur Protest for Rights and Recognition

The National Hawker Federation observes Street Vendor Abolition Protest Day, highlighting the struggles of street vendors in Jamshedpur.

JAMSHEDPUR -The National Hawker Federation commemorated Street Vendor Abolition Protest Day on Friday, with street vendors in Jamshedpur protesting against what they describe as unjust displacement without proper arrangements. The protest aligns with the Federation’s longstanding efforts to defend the rights of street vendors across the country.

Federation Secretary Uttam Chakraborty recalled the tragic events of November 24, 1996, when Operation Sunshine in Kolkata led to the overnight demolition of street vendor shops, resulting in 18 vendors taking their lives. In remembrance, Anti-Desolation Day is observed every year on November 24 in 28 states across India.

As part of the protest, a signature campaign near Mango Heera Hotel garnered support from hundreds of customers and local residents, all standing in solidarity against the demolition of street vendors’ shops.

The Federation put forth several demands to the local administration and government. Key among these is the full implementation of the Street Vendors Livelihood Protection and Regulation Act 2014, a legislation aimed at safeguarding the livelihood of sidewalk vendors. The Federation also urges the prompt identification of vending zones for evicted vendors.

Participants in the program included Uttam Chakraborty, Town Vending members like Birender Singh, Malti Das, and a host of other street vendors who strongly voiced their concerns and demands for recognition and support.

This protest underscores the ongoing struggle of street vendors for their rights and the need for effective policy implementation to ensure their livelihoods are protected and sustained.