Shillong: Hawkers and street vendors from across Shillong gathered at Khyndailad on Saturday night to protest alleged harassment by Paul Lyngdoh, Meghalaya’s Minister of Tourism. The vendors accused the minister of making misleading and illegal statements, including threats of eviction by November 24, 2024.
Despite the biting 9°C cold, vendors chose not to close their stalls, instead camping alongside them to defend their right to livelihood. Their aim: to ensure they can continue to provide for their families, feeding and educating their children.
Shane Thabah, Secretary of the Meghalaya and Greater Shillong Progressive Hawkers and Street Vendors Association, described the encampment and night market as a unique form of protest. “This is a reminder to the government to implement The Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act, 2014 in its true spirit,” he said.
The association also highlighted the need for public spaces, particularly new constructions, to incorporate hawking zones. They argued that establishments such as the MTC shopping mall, Marriot Hotel, Vivanta Hotel, Polo Market, and the Laitumkhrah shopping complex—built on government land—should allocate at least 20% of their floor area for hawkers and vendors.
In a gesture of inclusivity, the association welcomed buskers and street performers to share these spaces, emphasizing the cultural value they bring to public areas. “Even if Paul Lyngdoh himself wants to showcase his talent—be it singing or reciting poetry—the association will gladly help organize a genuine grassroots program,” they added with pointed irony.
The protest shines a spotlight on the ongoing struggles of street vendors in Shillong, who demand the recognition and protections guaranteed by law. As tensions rise, the association’s stand calls for urgent action from the government to resolve the conflict and uphold the rights of the city’s hawkers and street vendors.
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