Deputy Chief Minister in charge of Urban Affairs, Sniawbhalang Dhar, addressed the ongoing issue of hawker relocation in Shillong, emphasizing that the state government is following legal procedures while working to build consensus among all stakeholders.
Talking to Mediapersons, Dhar said, “About these hawkers, everything we will do accordingly as per law. That’s not an issue; we will try to take everybody on board. If there is some complication, we will solve it. The government is doing everything as per law. Yes, we are not only working based on the law, but we are also trying to take everyone into confidence. Yes, it may be an issue—they may not like some of the places—but for that also, we are ready to adjust here and there.”
His remarks came in the wake of protests by members of the Meghalaya & Greater Shillong Progressive Hawkers and Street Vendors Association (MGSPHSVA) outside the Shillong Municipal Board (SMB) office recently. The demonstrators opposed plans to relocate vendors from Khyndai Lad to newly designated vending zones, following a recent SMB notice that eligible vendors would be moved to three identified locations starting February 7.
When asked about the February 7 deadline, Dhar remarked, “We will see after that. We will see.” He also reaffirmed the government’s willingness to engage with stakeholders, saying, “Meeting the stakeholders, the door is always open. The mind of the government is yes, we want to relocate at least in a few of the places for the betterment of the city and for the convenience of the public. If there is any resistance from their side, we will have dialogue with them.”