An important meeting of street vendors was held today at the NASVI office in Mauryalok, Patna, jointly organised by the National Association of Street Vendors of India (NASVI) and the Patna City-Level Street Vendors’ Association (TLF).
The meeting aimed to discuss the pressing ground-level challenges faced by street vendors across Patna and to collectively raise these concerns before the administration. Vendors expressed serious concern over ongoing eviction drives, stating that such actions are threatening their livelihoods and are often carried out without due process.
Speakers highlighted that even vendors holding valid Certificates of Vending (COV) are being harassed during eviction drives. Incidents of cart demolition, seizure of goods, and arbitrary fines were reported, which were termed a clear violation of the Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act, 2014.
Addressing the gathering, leaders of the Patna City-Level Street Vendors’ Association emphasised that street vendors are an integral part of the city’s economy and deserve dignity, security, and lawful treatment. The meeting unanimously decided to submit a joint memorandum to the Municipal Commissioner (Chairperson, Town Vending Committee), the District Magistrate, and the Divisional Commissioner, outlining key demands of the vendors.
The meeting witnessed participation from a large number of street vendors, including women vendors and TLF members. Participants collectively resolved to continue peaceful and organised efforts to protect their rights. It was further decided that if the concerns are not addressed, street vendors will be compelled to initiate a peaceful but decisive movement in the coming days.