Hawkers’ union plans rally on March 8

Days after Union minister Ajay Maken, announced that the Street Vendors Bill 2013 is likely to be passed in Parliament, the Sharad Rao-led Mumbai Hawkers’ Union has planned a rally on March 8 in the city, to urge the civic body to issue licences to hawkers under the National Policy on Urban Street Vendors.

Days after Union minister Ajay Maken, announced that the Street Vendors Bill 2013 is likely to be passed in Parliament, the Sharad Rao-led Mumbai Hawkers’ Union has planned a rally on March 8 in the city, to urge the civic body to issue licences to hawkers under the National Policy on Urban Street Vendors.

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“We welcome Centre’s move to protect street vendors. However, I hope this is not just a way to win votes before elections. We demand timely implementation. The state will have to accept the proposed new law,” said Rao.

Around 1lakh hawkers are expected to participate in the rally to demand immediate issuance of licences. The rally will be held at the Kamgar Kreeda Kendra on Elphinstone Road.

“We do not believe in civic body’s initiative to protect hawkers, as they always followed an anti-hawking policy. A hawking policy should be immediately formed,” said Rao, adding that licences should be given to existing hawkers only.

“They should be allowed to hawk at places they are currently located at and not anywhere else.”

Rao will also ask deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar, state housing minister, Sachin Ahir and other MPs and MLAs to the support his demand.