Himachal Pradesh Initiates Street Vendor Verification Amid Controversy

Himachal Pradesh's opposition leader Jairam Thakur supported the government's decision to verify and register street vendors, a move previously stopped by Congress. Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh clarified that mandatory ID displays for shopkeepers aim to enhance internal security. However, Congress opposed comparisons to the Yogi model in Uttar Pradesh.

Himachal Pradesh's Leader of Opposition, Jairam Thakur, has lauded the state government's decision to verify and register street vendors, expressing hope that Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh remains steadfast in his stance. Thakur noted that although a street vendor policy existed earlier, it had been halted by the previous Congress administration. He emphasized the necessity of this policy in Himachal Pradesh.

Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh announced the mandate for shopkeepers and street vendors to display identity cards. However, after facing backlash, the government clarified that no final decision had been made. Singh highlighted that displaying owner names at eateries and shops was crucial for internal security, stressing the state government's commitment to maintaining peace.

Congress faced criticism for its earlier opposition to similar directives during the Kanwar Yatra. AICC Himachal Pradesh incharge, Rajiv Shukla, stated that comparing the street vendor policy with the Yogi model from Uttar Pradesh was inappropriate. Himachal Pradesh Assembly Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania has since formed a committee to draft a comprehensive policy for street vendors, amid protests over illegal constructions spotlighting the issue.

(With inputs from agencies.)