Shillong, Nov 26: Deputy Chief Minister in-charge of Urban Affairs, Sniawbhalang Dhar, on Tuesday assured that the government will protect the interests of hawkers.
Speaking to reporters, Dhar said, “Hawkers are our own people, but I urge them not to worry. We will consider their situation, they are our own, and we will discuss the matter to protect their interests.”
This assurance came after hawkers and street vendors recently staged a protest march to the Shillong Municipal Board against the move to relocate them from the Khyndailad and Motphran areas.
He said the government has identified places for the relocation of hawkers. “The identification process is still in progress as of now,” Dhar stated.
According to him, relocation will be done in phases.
When asked about when he would convene a meeting with the town vending committee, Dhar said, “Let’s see, now that the festive season has come, we will take our time. There’s no need to rush.”
“As of now, relocation is not postponed, but they will remain where they are, and when everything is finalized with the hawkers, we will make a decision,” he added.
