In another instance of demolition, roadside sellers were evicted by the panchayat with the help of the police at Rawanfond.
These traders are said to have been conducting their businesses for over 15 years, paying sopo to the Aquem Baixo panchayat. The sudden removal with short notice has caused significant distress, especially during Christmas Eve.
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The pressing question is: How were they allowed to operate for 15 years in the first place? These hawkers sold essential items such as eatables, plastic goods, and daily-use items to sustain their livelihoods. Last month, a similar eviction occurred in Mapusa, where shops were demolished despite having been established at the same locations for years. The traders from Rawanfond, who are locals, claim they were not given adequate notice or heard out, leaving them no time to relocate their belongings. Both panchayats and municipalities must develop a rehabilitation package for affected vendors, enabling them to continue earning their daily bread and supporting their families.
