Silchar Municipal Corporation Launches Eviction Drive to Clear Footpaths

The Silchar Municipal Corporation has launched its first major eviction drive to clear footpaths of illegal encroachments, aiming to restore pedestrian access. While the majority of vendors complied with the eviction notice, a small group resisted, leading to protests and detentions. The Mayor has assured that alternative vending zones are being explored to accommodate displaced traders. However, concerns have been raised regarding the adherence to legal procedures in the eviction process. This initiative has sparked significant debate about the balance between urban development and the livelihoods of street vendors.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 14, 2026, 19:18 IST

Eviction Drive Initiated by Silchar Municipal Corporation

SMC & district administration launched the drive along the 4-4.5-km Capital Point-Rangirkhari stretch, on Saturday. (AT Photo)

Silchar, Nov 14: Just nine days into its first five-year term, the Silchar Municipal Corporation has kicked off a significant initiative to clear footpaths of illegal encroachments.

During the launch of the eviction operation along the Capital Point-Rangirkhari route, which serves as the primary access road to Silchar Medical College and Hospital, Mayor Amarendra Paul informed a local media outlet that the goal was to remove vendors who had unlawfully occupied the footpaths.

“We are pleased to report that approximately 90% of the vendors complied with the notice and vacated their setups. Only about 10% resisted the directive, backed by individuals or groups with vested interests aiming to create unrest for political reasons,” stated the Mayor.

This action was taken following earlier notices from the corporation, instructing roadside vendors to vacate the area by November 14.

Mayor Paul also emphasized that the Corporation is in the process of identifying appropriate alternative vending locations for those affected by the eviction.

“We are looking into more suitable areas where vendors can operate without hindering pedestrian flow and traffic,” he added.

As a potential solution, Deputy Mayor Bijendra Prasad Singh proposed utilizing the space under the Sadarghat bridge and beyond the Tarapur bridge.

The eviction drive, carried out in collaboration with the district administration and under strict security, encountered opposition from members of the All India Bengali Rights Forum, who demanded rehabilitation for the displaced vendors.

Several protesters were taken into custody by police after they interrupted the operation, which later resumed.

“I believe that government operations should proceed without obstruction,” Singh remarked, noting that the Corporation would reconsider the initiative only if there was widespread opposition from residents.

Advocate Soumen Chowdhury, who participated in the protest with legal documents, questioned whether the proper procedures for evicting street vendors had been adhered to.

“A survey and the involvement of the Town Vending Committee are essential before such actions are taken,” he asserted.

The forum has insisted that traders should not lose their livelihoods without sufficient alternative provisions.