Street vendors win legal battle over relocation after The Newz Radar highlights their plight
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Shimla: In a landmark decision that marks a significant victory for street vendors, the High Court of Himachal Pradesh has ordered the civic authorities to comply with legal provisions safeguarding their rights.
The crucial ruling comes in the wake of extensive coverage by The Newz Radar, which highlighted the challenges faced by these vendors. The case, involving petitions CWP No. 4181/2023 and CWP No. 6863/2023, was resolved on August 30, 2024. The petitions, filed by Feraj Ram, Vinay Prasad and other vendors, challenged local authorities over unjust eviction practices and inadequate relocation measures.
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Petition CWP No. 4181/2023, led by senior advocate Bhuvnesh Sharma, sought protection against eviction without proper relocation assurances. The petitioners demanded written guarantees for relocation, access to essential services and adherence to the Street Vendors Act, 2014, including the issuance of vending certificates and identity cards.
CWP No. 6863/2023, represented by advocate Mukul Sood, focused on the fair allocation of 12 newly constructed shops to displaced vendors. The petitioners contested strict documentation requirements and sought assurances that these stalls would be reserved for the displaced vendors.
The court’s decision mandated the Municipal Corporation of Dharamshala to expedite the street vendor survey and ensure compliance with legal requirements. The authorities were directed to demand only essential documentation as specified by the Street Vendors Act, 2014.
Retired IAS Officer Captain JM Pathania played a pivotal role in assisting the vendors. On the request of Norsang, president of the Street Vendors Association, Captain Pathania’s involvement was instrumental in advocating for the vendors and advancing their cause.
The Newz Radar’s reporting was critical in this legal victory. By bringing the issues faced by street vendors to public attention, The Newz Radar not only highlighted their plight but also spurred legal action, demonstrating the vital role of media in holding authorities accountable.
