NEW DELHI, Oct 5: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Monday directed all States and Union Territories to ensure the protection of the livelihoods and human rights of local vendors, street vendors, hawkers, potters and small traders during the upcoming Navratri, Diwali and Chhath Puja festivities.
The directions came in view of complaints alleging the unnecessary eviction of vendors and hawkers in various cities, seizure of their goods, imposition of fines and harassment during the festive season.
According to an NHRC press release, the Commission had taken cognizance of similar complaints during last year’s festive season. An NHRC bench headed by Member Priyank Kanoongo had directed the concerned States and local authorities to examine the allegations and take appropriate action.
The Commission said it had again found the need to intervene this year to safeguard the livelihoods and human rights of local vendors during the festive period.
Under the fresh directions, vendors should not be unnecessarily evicted or deprived of their livelihoods during Navratri, Diwali and Chhath Puja. However, where relocation is necessary due to fire safety or other public safety concerns, authorities have been asked to provide suitable alternative vending spaces.
The NHRC also directed that vendors’ goods should not be arbitrarily seized or subjected to unnecessary action. Complaints of harassment, extortion or undue interference should be dealt with in accordance with law, it said.
The Commission further called upon local administrations to promote local vendors, traditional occupations and locally manufactured products in the spirit of “Vocal for Local.”
Chief Secretaries of all States and UTs have been directed to ensure wide circulation of the directions among District Magistrates, municipal authorities, police and other concerned officials and ensure their effective implementation.
The NHRC has also asked the authorities to submit additional or complete Action Taken Reports in pending matters by October 18, 2026.
