West Bengal CM Urges Alternative to Hawkers' Evictions by BJP Government
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has voiced her concerns over the BJP government's forced eviction of hawkers, urging for more humane alternatives. Her critique centers around ensuring fair treatment and the protection of livelihoods.
Highlights
- •Mamata Banerjee condemns abrupt evictions of hawkers
- •Proposes setting up town vending committees to protect rights
- •Refers to Article 21's clause on life and liberty for justification
- •Urges more humane and alternative solutions
Trinamul Congress leader Mamata Banerjee recently expressed deep concern over the eviction of hawkers led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government following a change in power in West Bengal. Speaking to her followers, Mamata condemned the sudden and brutal removal of hawkers by bulldozers and urged for an alternative approach.
Her Concerns Raised
Mamata Banerjee took to social media to voice her sentiments during International Hawkers' Day. She wrote, "I congratulate my hardworking brothers and sisters on the occasion of International Hawkers' Day. My heart goes out to them as I see how hawkers are being evicted by the BJP government without any prior notice or proper arrangement for their livelihood. The government must provide a solution that respects their rights.
Motivated by her love for local economies, Mamata Banerjee emphasized the role of hawkers, small traders, and sellers in supporting the backbone of our cities and towns. She stated, "These hardworking people form an essential part of any thriving economy; any abrupt eviction without due consideration is unjust." In light of this, she proposed setting up town vending committees to ensure that their voices are heard in planning processes.
While citing past laws and court cases on hawkers' rights in West Bengal, Mamata reminded the authorities that such hasty actions violate basic human rights. Referencing Article 21's clause on 'life and liberty,' she argued that alternative measures should be sought to protect these individuals.
