Nagaland Street Vendors Fight Back Against Extortion

Kohima: The Street Vendors Association of Nagaland held an awareness event in Dimapur on Thursday. Vendors from across the district gathered to confront ongoing issues of extortion, harassment, and forced evictions. Dimapur BJP president Shekishe Achumi attended the meeting to explain the legal rights granted by the 2014 Street Vendors Act. Vendors now have clear protection under the law. They are entitled to designated zones and cannot be removed without proper notice. Government rules ensure they work in a professional, secure space.

Achumi defended the trade during the session. "Street vending is a noble profession and a vital means of livelihood. Vendors have every right to earn in a dignified and secure environment," he said. The Dimapur Chamber of Commerce and Industry recently brought the vendors association under its umbrella to offer further support. Vice president Shikuto Sema told the crowd that unity and discipline will help them hold their ground against illegal tax demands.

SVAN president Kughato Zhimo says 15,000 vendors in the area currently operate without knowing their rights. Many municipal spaces remain occupied by unauthorized groups, blocking legitimate registrations. Zhimo warned that anyone caught extorting workers will face legal consequences. The association plans to push for formal vending IDs and permits to ensure members qualify for financial schemes like PM SVANidhi. Registered members will receive legal help if they face harassment on the job.