Street Vendors Association Nagaland (SVAN) and Self-Employed Women’s Association (SEWA) Nagaland have resolved to work together to protect the rights and livelihoods of street vendors across Nagaland.
The decision was taken during an emergency meeting held at Hotel Grand Tizu in Dimapur on Tuesday, where representatives of both organisations discussed issues affecting street vendors, including alleged extortion, harassment and forced evictions.
According to a press release, the two organisations agreed to coordinate with legal authorities to safeguard the rights of street vendors and improve their livelihoods in accordance with the provisions of the Street Vendors Act and related rules and schemes in Nagaland.
The meeting was attended by SVAN president Kughato Zhimo, general secretary Dr. Subonglemba Aier and other office bearers, along with SEWA Nagaland president Atoli and representatives of the organisation.
The organisations also stressed the need to empower street vendors, particularly women and other vulnerable groups, through engagement with local authorities and the Town Vending Committees in each district.
SVAN and SEWA said they would work towards promoting the welfare, dignity and rights of street vendors throughout the state.