Shillong (Meghalaya), Aug 29: The Meghalaya High Court has taken a firm stance on unlicensed street vendors in Shillong’s Laitumkhrah area, directing the Shillong Municipal Board to conduct a thorough survey and take strict action against vendors operating without licenses. The Court’s order came after the Board filed a report revealing that 122 hawkers were identified in the area, none of whom possess a certificate of vending or a vending license. An additional 48 vendors claimed themselves as street vendors, bringing the total to 170 vendors operating without licenses.
The Court directed the Board to ensure that no additional vendors are allowed to trade in the area until further orders and to consider pending applications for vending certificates/licenses within eight weeks. The State and the Board are required to file joint or independent reports before the returnable date of this PIL, which has been scheduled eight weeks hence.
This decisive action by the Meghalaya High Court highlights its commitment to maintaining order and ensuring that street vendors operate within the bounds of the law. The Court’s directions are expected to bring relief to the local residents and traders who have been affected by the proliferation of unlicensed street vendors in the area.
By taking strict action against unlicensed vendors, the Court aims to promote a more organized and regulated street vending system in Shillong.
