The Bombay High Court has taken a firm stance on the issue of hawkers in the city. During a hearing on a suo motu petition addressing the problem of illegal hawking, the division bench, comprising Justice S M Sonak and Justice Kamal Khata, made it clear that no protective orders would be granted in favour of hawkers. While specifically refusing protection, the bench also discussed potential solutions.”

BMC removes illegal street hawkers from Crawford Market on July 29. Pic/Ashish Raje 

The court also discussed potential solutions, suggesting, “Condition some other places. Let there be some more areas and see if a model can be applicable to curb (illegal) hawking. We are looking into the larger issue right now.”