Hawker Leader Slams BMC’s “Harassment” of Licensed Vendors, Threatens Massive Protest
By: Arvind Jadhav
Mumbai: In a scathing critique, Babulal Bhavanji, senior BJP leader and former Deputy Mayor of Mumbai, has lambasted the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) for its alleged “harassment” of licensed street vendors. Bhavanji warned that if the BMC doesn’t cease its actions, a massive protest will be organized.
Targeting the Vulnerable
Bhavanji expressed outrage that despite the High Court’s directive to remove unauthorized vendors, the BMC is targeting 32,000 licensed hawkers, depriving them of their livelihood. “The government and BMC must understand the struggles of street vendors in Mumbai,” he emphasized.
Laws Not Implemented
The leader questioned the BMC’s inaction in implementing laws passed by the Indian Parliament regarding street vendors. Citing a 2015 Supreme Court order, Bhavanji stressed that designated hawking zones must be established before taking action against vendors.
Corruption Allegations
Bhavanji alleged that BMC officials are allowing unauthorized hawking to continue, likely due to corruption. He also expressed concern about vendors who received government loans under the Prime Minister’s Swannidhi scheme being targeted, which could lead to loan defaults and damaged credit records.
Fight for Rights
Bhavanji concluded that the BMC’s actions against licensed vendors must stop. “The vendors will fight for their rights through protests, following the path shown by Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar,” he declared, vowing to protect the livelihoods of Mumbai’s street vendors.
