AICCTU advocates for rights and unity; forms 15-member committee

Bengaluru, NT Bureau: The Street Traders' Association of Karnataka (AICCTU) convened its general membership meeting on Tuesday, attracting a diverse gathering of street vendors from across Bengaluru.

The primary agenda of the meeting was to address inequalities faced by members of society, organise street vendors statewide, and advocate for the protection of constitutional rights and democracy.

S. Babu, who has spearheaded the association alongside street vendors, emphasised their collective commitment to standing up for themselves and their families, independent of any dependency. He called for resistance against harassment from police, municipal officials, and other parties.

Highlighting their efforts, Vinay Srinivas, the association's official and legal representative, stressed the importance of legal literacy and empowerment among street vendors. He underscored the pivotal role of the association in securing livelihood protection under the Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act, 2014.

This legislation not only safeguards their livelihoods but also ensures their rights are upheld. AICCTU State President Mr. Clifton D'Rosario highlighted crucial role of street vendors in urban development processes in Bengaluru, despite facing significant challenges.

He commended their resilience in using association as a platform to articulate their grievances and aspirations effectively. A 15-member committee, with S. Babu elected as President of Bengaluru, was formed.