Mumbai Mayor Signals Action Against Illegal Bangladeshi Hawkers Occupying Footpaths

Mumbai Mayor has said the civic administration will act against “illegal Bangladeshi hawkers” operating on city footpaths, asserting that encroachments by unauthorised vendors will be cleared as part of a broader drive to reclaim pedestrian spaces. The mayor’s remarks come amid renewed focus on street vending regulations and enforcement of municipal norms governing public spaces. Civic officials have indicated that footpath encroachments pose safety risks to pedestrians and contribute to congestion in several high-density commercial zones across Mumbai.

While outlining the proposed action, the mayor stated that authorities would verify the legal status and documentation of vendors before initiating removal proceedings. The administration is expected to coordinate with law enforcement agencies to identify individuals allegedly residing or operating businesses without valid documentation.

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The statement has drawn political reactions, with some groups supporting stricter enforcement against illegal encroachments, while others have cautioned against profiling or targeting communities without due process. Activists have emphasised that any action must comply with the Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act, which provides safeguards for registered vendors.

The issue of street hawking has long been contentious in Mumbai, where competing concerns over livelihood, urban planning, and public order frequently intersect. The municipal corporation is likely to face scrutiny over how it balances enforcement measures with legal protections as the proposed crackdown moves forward.

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