Meghalaya High Court Orders Relocation of Street Vendors in Shillong

The Meghalaya High Court has mandated the Shillong Municipal Board to identify and relocate street vendors in Laitumkhrah, similar to those in Police Bazaar. A thorough survey is to be conducted, with a report due in three weeks. The court aims to ensure that no new vendors operate in the area while addressing pending license applications. The SMB's findings reveal a significant number of unlicensed vendors, highlighting the need for regulatory measures. This directive underscores the court's commitment to organized urban management and vendor rights.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 31, 2025, 11:59 IST

Court Directs Action on Street Vendors

Shillong, Aug 31: The Meghalaya High Court has instructed the Shillong Municipal Board (SMB) to locate vendors and street hawkers operating in Laitumkhrah, aiming to relocate them similarly to those in Police Bazaar.

In conjunction with the district administration, the SMB will also seek an appropriate site for the relocation of licensed vendors.

A division bench, including Chief Justice IG Mukerji and Justice W Diengdoh, issued this directive following a Public Interest Litigation (PIL). The court mandated the SMB to conduct a comprehensive survey of the Laitumkhrah area and compile a detailed inventory of all street vendors within three weeks.

The municipal authority has also been instructed to prevent any new vendors from commencing business in the area and to address all pending applications for vending licenses within eight weeks.

Previously, in response to the High Court's order for an inspection of vendors in Laitumkhrah, the SMB reported that many hawkers operate without a vending certificate or license.

According to the SMB, there are 122 vendors and street hawkers in total, with only 22 meeting the criteria for relocation. Additionally, 48 more vendors have identified themselves as street vendors, bringing the total number of unlicensed street vendors in Laitumkhrah to 170, as per the SMB's findings.