SHILLONG: Expressing strong opposition and refusing to bow down to oppression, the Meghalaya and Greater Shillong Progressive Hawkers and Street Vendors Association (MGSPHSVA) held an emergency meeting at the National Dorbar Hall in Shillong on October 21, 2026.
The association resolved to issue a strict 7-day ultimatum to the government to immediately withdraw the eviction notice issued by the office of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Shillong Municipal Board, warning of intense state-wide agitations if the demand is not met.
The controversial notice forces street vendors operating from GS Road all the way to Motphran, the Jeep Stand, and Iew Mawlong to relocate by November 25, 2026, banning them from conducting business in those areas entirely and placing them in severe hardship.
Addressing the gathering, Association Leader Angela Rangad stated that the notice is completely illegal and stems merely from the coercion of a few government representatives who falsely claimed it was a decision made by the Town Committee (PTC).
She clarified that members of the PTC themselves have not accepted such a resolution, and vendors refuse to be treated like cattle and driven to a single isolated location.
She added that these zones are natural and heritage markets—including Iewduh and Iew Mawlong—which, under the law, cannot be displaced without proper, systematic arrangements.
Kong Angela also highlighted that over the years, vendors have cooperated with the government to find practical solutions for congested areas, but certain individuals have exploited the law for personal gain by deploying Municipal trucks to chase away vendors and loot their goods.
Furthermore, she pointed out that the Provisional Town Vending Committee (PVTC) has expired and is defunct, as its mandate was strictly to conduct surveys, issue licenses, and hold elections where 40 per cent of the members would be hawkers to ensure decisions are made democratically via voting.
Offering constructive alternatives for relocation, the association suggested developing Them Motor by consulting with the Cantonment Board to improve the area and build a dedicated hawkers’ market and housing; utilizing Lum Survey—currently known as a hub for drug peddling—for vendors displaced from GS Road; and setting up spaces at the Syndicate Bus Stop for those from Iew Mawlong, thereby keeping roads clean and ensuring smooth market flow.
Concluding her address, Angela announced the assembly’s decision to demand the immediate withdrawal of the December 16 notice, which threatens to designate vending zones and cram hawkers into the Tabung Parking Lot.
Consequently, the association has given the government a strict one-week window to amend and revoke the notice, warning authorities to brace for fierce protests against the suppression of public will and the rule of law.
(4FrontMedia news)
