Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister in charge of Urban Affairs, Sniawbhalang Dhar, clarified that the government has records of only 600-700 registered hawkers, contrary to claims by hawker representatives of over 5,000. He assured that periodic surveys will be conducted to ensure proper documentation, and the government is dedicated to finding a fair solution for the relocation.
“There might be more, but we rely on the official data. A survey will be conducted periodically to ensure proper documentation,” Dhar said.
Further, the Deputy Chief Minister acknowledged that the government is still in the process of identifying suitable locations for the relocation of hawkers in Shillong and reiterated the commitment to finding a fair solution. “Dialogue and cooperation will lead us to a suitable decision,” he said.
Regarding the hawkers’ request for a better place, Dhar assured them that the government is working to find an appropriate solution through dialogue. “The hawkers met me, they requested me to give them a good place, and I told them, don’t worry, I am with you. Please cooperate with the government. You may not be getting exactly what you want, we also may not get exactly what we want. I think by dialogue we will be able to get a good place,” he stated.
Dhar emphasized the importance of cooperation between the government and hawkers, saying, “They are our brothers and sisters; we have to think properly. We can’t throw them just like that. We will be taking a united decision along with them.”
The Deputy Chief Minister further mentioned that the government is still identifying potential relocation sites. “We are still identifying a few more places. Once the place is identified, we will discuss with the officers and stakeholders. We are yet to identify new places for the hawkers’ relocation,” he said.
This delay in the relocation process follows the government’s failure to issue the required 30-day notice, as mandated by a court order, which has further prolonged the process.