SHILLONG: The Voice of the People Party (VPP) State Youth and Women Wing have strongly protested the recent forceful eviction of street vendors at Jail Road, meeting with Shillong Municipal Board (SMB) CEO P.K. Boro to demand accountability and transparency.
The delegation criticized the SMB for abruptly clearing vendors without proper explanation or justification.
VPP Youth Wing Secretary Nathaniel Mawrie highlighted that 17 vendors have yet to receive their Certificate of Vending (COV), and asserted that the vendors are ready to vacate the area once these are issued.
He recalled previous assurances from the Urban Affairs Minister to address the issue, but lamented the lack of follow-through and genuine concern from authorities.
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The delegation pointed out that many affected vendors are single mothers facing severe livelihood crises due to the eviction, questioning whether the government is neglecting the plight of daily wage earners.
The VPP wings insisted that no vendor should be harassed or evicted until all eligible individuals receive their COVs, and called for decisive action rather than shifting of responsibility between officials and the Ministry.
The party condemned the confiscation of vendors’ goods as disrespectful and cruel, and urged prompt intervention to ensure fair treatment and economic security for Shillong’s street vendors.
(4FrontMedia news)
