The Communist Party of India (Marxist) has condemned the sudden, notice‑less removal of street vendors in Mysuru, calling it illegal and urging full implementation of the 2014 Street Vendors Act. The party warns that such actions threaten livelihoods of thousands of low‑income families.

Key Takeaways

  • CPI(M) calls for an immediate stop to forced evictions of street vendors in Mysuru.
  • Demands strict compliance with the Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act, 2014.
  • Emphasizes the need for legitimate vending zones, licensing, and social security for vendors.

Mysuru, July 14, 2026 – The Mysuru District Committee of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) has condemned the forced eviction of street vendors carried out without prior notice or alternative arrangements. District Secretary Jagadish Surya asserted that these vendors form an essential part of the city’s economy and that their abrupt removal would plunge thousands of poor families into distress.

Legal Framework and Background

The Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act, 2014 obliges state and local authorities to safeguard the rights of street vendors. The law mandates a comprehensive survey before any eviction drive, issuance of vending certificates to eligible sellers, effective functioning of the Town Vending Committee, and identification of designated vending zones.

Current Situation and CPI(M)’s Demands

Jagadish Surya highlighted that the Mysuru City Corporation (MCC) and the district administration have ignored these statutory requirements. He urged an immediate cessation of the eviction, a consultative process with vendors, allocation of appropriate vending zones, and full enforcement of the 2014 Act “in letter and spirit.” He stressed that depriving the poor of their livelihoods in the name of urban development is fundamentally unjust.

Balancing Urban Development with Social Inclusion

While cities strive for cleanliness, order, and aesthetic appeal, these goals can only be achieved if vendors are allowed to operate from legally sanctioned spaces. Successful models across Indian cities demonstrate that allocating designated market stalls and regulated zones can harmonize the interests of municipal authorities and the informal sector.

Path Forward

CPI(M) has appealed to the state government, MCC, district administration, elected representatives, civil‑society organisations, and the public to protect the legitimate rights of street vendors. Failure to address these concerns could spark social unrest and protests, threatening urban peace and cohesion.