By Sunil Sonker
Mussoorie, 14 Dec: The controversy surrounding street vendors here appears to be escalating once again. In addition to ongoing disputes among street vendors, a case of alleged threats against those representing them on the Town Vending Committee has emerged. Street vendors associated with the Town Vending Committee have lodged a strong protest.
Town Vending Committee members Geeta Bhatt, Murari Lal and Anjana Dhoundiyal say that some individuals are constantly politicising the issue of street vendors. Despite the efforts of Municipal Council President Meera Saklani and the administration to organise conditions for street vendors, they are protesting. Therefore, those whose political interests were based on this issue are now being affected. Confusion is spread due to political interests.
Members of the Town Vending Committee alleged that some people are openly opposing the administration’s efforts to organise street vendors. They stated that this opposition is not being driven by public interest, but by political interests. These individuals have numerous other sources of income, yet they are deliberately creating controversy over the issue.
Street vendors associated with the Town Vending Committee clarified that genuine street vendors are completely satisfied with the efforts being made by the Municipal Corporation and the administration. They stated that, for a long time, action has been taken against street vendors on a daily basis, but now that the administration is moving towards a permanent solution, some people are experiencing difficulties.
Street vendors stated that they will support every decision of the Municipal Corporation and President Meera Saklani that is in the best interests of street vendors. They expressed confidence that the administration’s initiative would initially organise the street vendors, and then discuss ways to provide livelihoods for other needy individuals.
Members of the Town Vending Committee appealed to all street vendors to unite and support the Municipal Corporation and local administration to find a lasting and practical solution to the problems facing street vendors in Mussoorie. They warned that they would not bow to threats or political pressure and would continue their peaceful struggle for their rights.
