MCC Suspends “Operation Tiger” After Street Vendor Protests

In response to relentless protests by street vendors against “Operation Tiger,” which allegedly targeted and destroyed the property of poor vendors with municipal ID cards, MCC Commissioner Anand C L announced the suspension of the operation. He promised compensation for confiscated and damaged goods, leading to the end of the protest.

B K Imtiaz, honorary president of the Dakshina Kannada District Street Vendors Association, warned of future protests if the legal process is not followed. He highlighted the delay in distributing ID cards approved for 667 street vendors by the town vending committee and called for the establishment of legal zones for their businesses.

Key figures in the discussion included Sunil Kumar Bajal, state president of the Karnataka State Street Vendors Federation, and social activist Manjula Nayak, among others. They joined the protest outside the commissioner’s office, demanding an end to the operation and compensation for losses incurred.

Imtiaz condemned the operation as unconstitutional and accused officials of violating the law. He criticized the use of bulldozers to demolish vendors’ shops and accused the Congress government of political gain. Imtiaz also defended street vendors against allegations from hotel owners, asserting that vendors support the government and contribute to the economy.

Imtiaz called for proper arrangements for street vendors, citing the need for designated vending zones and compliance with Supreme Court orders protecting vendors with ID cards. The protest saw significant support from social activists and community leaders.