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Illegal hawkers: HC suggests QR code-based identification, seeks action plan
The Bombay High Court criticized Mumbai's handling of illegal hawkers and urged the BMC to implement a QR code-based identification system to bring transparency. The court questioned actions to identify illegal vendors, including alleged Bangladeshi nationals, and directed the civic body to submit an action plan and conduct discreet verifications, with a further hearing scheduled.
Why It Matters
The court's intervention highlights ongoing concerns about street-vending regulation and migrant identification, potentially affecting pedestrian movement and urban governance in Mumbai.
Timeline
2 Events
May 6, 2026: HC hearing on illegal hawkers; QR code-based ID suggested
May 6, 2026
The division bench flagged administrative chaos in tackling illegal hawking and suggested introducing a QR code-based identification for hawkers to bring transparency. It questioned the BMC on steps taken to identify illegal hawkers, especially alleged Bangladeshi nationals, and on actions to remove and repatriate illegal migrants. The court directed the BMC to submit a plan for identifying alleged Bangladeshi infiltrators and posted the matter for further hearing on Wednesday, amid petitions including one by the Goregaon Merchants Association.
March 2026: Court directs thorough verification of hawkers
March 2026
In March 2026, the Bombay High Court directed the BMC and Mumbai Police to conduct a thorough verification of all hawkers and their helpers across the city, with a focus on identifying alleged Bangladeshis or non-Indian nationals and taking appropriate action against illegal vendors.