NHRC Urges States, UTs to Avoid Unnecessary Removal of Street Vendors During Festive Season
Commission asks authorities to provide alternative vending sites where relocation is necessary and prevent arbitrary seizure, fines and harassment.
New Delhi, Oct 5: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has directed all States and Union Territories to protect the livelihoods and human rights of street vendors, hawkers, potters, local vendors and small traders during the upcoming Navratri, Diwali and Chhath Puja festivities.
The direction follows complaints alleging that vendors in several cities were being unnecessarily removed from vending areas, while their goods were seized and fines imposed. Complaints of harassment and other forms of interference were also brought to the Commission’s notice.
The NHRC said that during last year’s festive season, a bench headed by Member Priyank Kanoongo had taken cognizance of similar concerns and asked the concerned State governments and local authorities to examine the allegations and take appropriate action.
Observing that its intervention was again necessary this year, the Commission has issued fresh directions to ensure that festive-season enforcement measures do not adversely affect the livelihoods of small traders and traditional vendors.
The NHRC has asked authorities to avoid unnecessary eviction of vendors during Navratri, Diwali and Chhath Puja. However, where shifting is required for fire safety, public safety or other legitimate reasons, the concerned authorities have been instructed to provide suitable alternative vending locations.
The Commission has also cautioned authorities against arbitrary seizure of vendors’ goods or unnecessary punitive action. Complaints concerning harassment, extortion or undue interference are to be addressed in accordance with the law.
In addition, the NHRC has encouraged local administrations to support traditional occupations, local vendors and locally manufactured products in keeping with the “Vocal for Local” initiative.
To ensure implementation, the Commission has directed the Chief Secretaries of all States and Union Territories to circulate its directions among District Magistrates, municipal bodies, police departments and other relevant authorities.
The concerned administrations have also been asked to ensure that the instructions are effectively implemented at the ground level during the festive period.
The NHRC has further directed that additional or complete Action Taken Reports in pending matters be submitted to the Commission by October 18, 2026.
