NHRC Directs States to Protect Street Vendors During Navratri, Diwali and Chhath

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has directed states and Union Territories to safeguard the livelihoods and rights of street vendors, hawkers, potters and other small traders during the upcoming festive season. The directions cover the periods around Navratri, Diwali and Chhath Puja, when temporary markets and roadside businesses typically see increased activity.

The human rights body has asked local authorities to avoid unnecessary eviction of vendors and ensure that enforcement measures do not unfairly disrupt their livelihoods. The instructions come after concerns were raised about vendors being removed from public spaces, having their goods taken away and facing alleged harassment during previous festive periods.

Alternative Spaces Required Where Eviction Is Necessary

The NHRC has clarified that authorities can take action where there are genuine public-safety or fire-safety concerns. However, in situations where vendors have to leave a particular location for these reasons, officials have been asked to arrange suitable alternative vending spaces rather than leaving them without a place to conduct their business.

The Commission has also asked authorities to ensure that vendors' belongings are not confiscated arbitrarily. Complaints involving harassment, alleged extortion or unwarranted interference are to be dealt with according to applicable law.

The directions apply to a wide range of small-scale sellers, including traditional vendors and people whose businesses are closely connected with local festive markets.

Action Follows Earlier Complaints

The latest intervention follows complaints received during the previous festive season. The NHRC had earlier taken cognisance of allegations involving the removal of vendors, seizure of merchandise, fines and harassment in different cities.

After reviewing the issue last year, the Commission had directed concerned state governments and local authorities to examine the complaints and take appropriate action. It has now issued fresh directions after determining that another intervention was necessary ahead of this year's major festivals.

The move places responsibility on local administrations to balance public order and safety requirements with the economic interests of people dependent on street vending.

States Asked to Circulate Directions

Chief Secretaries of all states and Union Territories have been asked to ensure that the NHRC's instructions reach District Magistrates, municipal bodies, police departments and other officials responsible for enforcement.

The Commission has also called for effective implementation rather than limiting the directions to administrative communication. Local authorities are expected to take the instructions into account while managing public spaces during the festive period.

Alongside protecting vendors, the NHRC has encouraged local administrations to support traditional occupations and locally manufactured products. The Commission linked this approach with the broader "Vocal for Local" initiative.

The human rights body has further asked for additional Action Taken Reports in pending matters by October 18, 2026. The reporting requirement will allow the Commission to assess how earlier complaints and its directions have been handled.

With Navratri, Diwali and Chhath approaching, the directions place renewed focus on the balance between maintaining public safety and protecting the livelihoods of street vendors and small traders who depend heavily on festive-season business.