All-party meeting agrees on policy framework for street vendors in Himachal Pradesh

Shimla, September 13: An all-party meeting chaired by Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Friday unanimously agreed to form a joint committee to draft a policy framework for street vendors across the state. The meeting, attended by prominent leaders of the Congress, BJP and CPI(M), focused on regulating street vendors activities in a legal and organized manner to address the concerns of both street vendors and local communities.

The resolution passed during the meeting called upon the Assembly Speaker to constitute a joint committee. The committee will be responsible for formulating a comprehensive policy for street vendors, ensuring their rights while promoting public order. It aims to address challenges related to unregulated street vending, including allocation of designated vending zones and guidelines for vendors operating in urban and rural areas.

Addressing challenges faced by street vendors
The policy framework will focus on striking a balance between the rights of street vendors and the need for organised public spaces. The joint committee will examine issues such as congestion in key areas, ensuring legal protection for vendors, and mitigating conflicts arising out of unregulated vending practices. The move is seen as a step towards promoting a more harmonious environment in busy urban centres and protecting the livelihoods of street vendors.

Sanjauli dispute resolution
Apart from the street vendor policy, the ongoing Sanjauli dispute in Shimla was also discussed during the meeting. A legal solution to the issue was emphasised, with the leaders agreeing that the matter must be resolved immediately to maintain peace in the region. The Sanjauli dispute has been a source of local tension, and the all-party consensus was that a peaceful and lawful solution must be attempted.

Call for peace and harmony in the state
A joint statement issued after the meeting highlighted the importance of maintaining peace and harmony in Himachal Pradesh. The leaders acknowledged that Himachal has always been a state known for mutual brotherhood and peaceful coexistence. They appealed to the public to uphold these values, stressing that no community or religion should face discrimination as long as they work within the ambit of the law.

Chief Minister Sukhu said that all political parties have a shared responsibility in maintaining the peaceful atmosphere of the state. He admitted that tensions have escalated recently due to local political agendas, but assured the people that steps are being taken to restore peace and address the root causes of disputes.