Shillong hawkers demand suspension of eviction drive, revocation of no vending status of Khyndailad

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJuly 3, 2025

The Shillong Roadside Hawkers Association (SRHA) has demanded the immediate suspension of the eviction drive and revocation of the no-vending zone status of Khyndailad (Police Bazar), recognizing it as a natural market.

In a petition submitted to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Shillong Municipal Board (SMB) on Wednesday, SRHA President T Nongbri stated that the eviction drive and relocation of street vendors to the MUDA complex violate the Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act, 2014.

The association claimed that the government’s notification declaring Khyndailad a “no vending zone” is invalid due to lack of justification for an urgent public purpose.

Nongbri also pointed out that the MUDA complex is unfit for vending as it lacks essential infrastructure, including toilets, water, shelter, and lighting.

The SRHA has urged the SMB to evaluate alternative sites for vending, conduct a fresh survey to issue Certificates of Vending (CoVs) to genuine vendors, and provide compensation to affected vendors.

The association has requested a response and corrective action within 30 days to protect the livelihoods of its members.

Nongbri emphasized that Police Bazaar qualifies as a natural market under the Act, exempting it from no-vending zone declarations unless an urgent public purpose is proven.

“Police Bazaar qualifies as a natural market under First Schedule 3 (a), exempting it from no-vending zone declarations unless an urgent public purpose is proven. The notification (dated May 30, 2025) fails to justify such a purpose, rendering it invalid under section 12,” he stated while adding “The eviction from Police Bazar and relocation to the MUDA complex violate the Street Vendors Act, 2014, due to procedural lapses, the complex’s unsuitability, and the disregard for Police Bazaar’s natural market status.”

According to Nongbri, the association is open to dialogue to resolve the concerns and ensure compliance with the Act.