Bombay HC orders strict verification of Mumbai street vendors ​

The Bombay High Court has directed the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and police to carry out a detailed verification of all hawkers and their helpers across Mumbai, as per reports. The court also warned that officials could face personal responsibility if they fail to act.

The court made the observations while hearing petitions about the growing number of unauthorised street vendors in the city. Petitioners claimed that illegal hawking is creating problems for both residents and licensed vendors, and that authorities have not taken proper action despite complaints.

The court reportedly expressed serious concerns over the situation, saying it is affecting daily life in Mumbai. It noted that crowded footpaths make it difficult for pedestrians, especially women, children, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities, to move safely. In some cases, emergency services like ambulances and fire brigades also struggle to reach certain areas due to blocked roads, as per reports.​

The court reportedly directed authorities to verify the identity of all hawkers, including those suspected to be illegal immigrants. If anyone is found to be staying illegally, action must be taken as per the law, including deportation if required, it said.

The court also refused to delay the implementation of the Street Vendors Act, stating that continuous legal challenges have already caused long delays. It ordered the BMC to inspect all stalls on roads and footpaths to ensure they do not block movement, as per reports.

Additionally, the court reportedly validated the Town Vending Committee elections held in August 2024 and asked for an immediate declaration of results. It allowed over 99,000 eligible hawkers to operate under strict rules, while others will be verified within four months.

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