Amid communal tension, Himachal to set up committee to frame policy for street vendors

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Tuesday said that a committee would be constituted to frame a street vendor policy so that licences could be issued only after the verification of antecedents.

There has been public outrage over the illegal construction of a multi-storeyed mosque.

“Himachal has a history of peaceful coexistence. We respect every section of society. Law will take its own course, and in case there is illegality, action will be taken as per rules,” he stated.

Over the past few days, protests have been held in Shimla over the construction of a multi-storeyed mosque in Sanjauli area in violation of norms.

Replying to the Point of Order raised by Shimla MLA Harish Janartha on public outrage against the illegal construction of the mosque, the CM said there was a need to formulate a policy for vendors and allotment of space as per rules.

“A Cabinet sub-committee or a Vidhan Sabha committee will be constituted to look into the issue as it is the responsibility of both the ruling party and the Opposition to ensure communal harmony in the state,” he said. Everyone in the country had the right to work anywhere, and Himachal was a peaceful state where people lived in communal harmony and all religions and faiths were respected, he added.

Speaker Kuldeep Pathania said any dharna or protest must be dealt with firmly to prevent any law and order problem.

Leader of Opposition (LoP) Jai Ram Thakur warned that the construction of the illegal mosque could snowball into a major issue across the state. “During our regime, we had started a verification and registration process. Any citizen of the country can come to Himachal, but it is worrisome if the antecedents are not verified,” said Thakur.

The LoP asserted that there should be an early disposal of the case. “This case is different as the sentiments of a large section of population are involved. Neither BJP nor Congress supporters were associated with the protest. It was an outpouring of public sentiment and outrage,” he said.

Rural Development Minister Anirudh Singh pointed out that every citizen of India was welcome to earn his livelihood in Himachal, "however, this issue has gone beyond it. Some people wish to give it a communal colour while others are seeking political mileage.” He said a policy must be framed for Himachalis, and anyone from outside the state should be issued a licence only after due verification.

The minister also sought action against some anti-social elements who were posting inflammatory messages on social media. It could lead to a major law and order situation, he added.