Mangaluru witnessed a dramatic scene on Sunday, August 16, as Sunday Bazaar vendors were forced to shut down their businesses near Town Hall. The City Corporation Commissioner had given an oral order allowing vendors to operate, but the Corporation’s zonal commissioner led an eviction drive around 4 PM. B.K. Imtiyaz, Honorary President of the D.K. District Street Vendors’ Association, condemned the move as inhumane. For two Sundays, Corporation officials had verified vendors’ documents to confirm their identity and Karnataka state residency. Following this, vendors had set up their stalls, expecting a busy day due to the Nagara Panchami festival. However, the sudden raid by Corporation officials resulted in significant losses for the vendors. Despite their pleas to be allowed to trade for the remaining three hours, officials acted mercilessly. Imtiyaz alleged that the eviction drive was unjust, given the street vending law provisions for weekly markets. He warned that if the operation continues, the vendors will intensify their struggle.
Image for illustration purposes only
📰 Source: Vartha Bharati DK