NHRC bench chaired by Member Shri Priyank Kanoongo heard 34 complaints last December from vendors in Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata, many alleging arbitrary evictions and seizure of goods.
The new directive forbids any eviction of street vendors during the three festivals unless a legitimate fire‑ or public‑safety concern forces the change, and it requires authorities to provide suitable alternative vending spaces.
Vendors’ goods may not be seized arbitrarily; complaints of harassment, extortion or undue interference must be dealt with according to the law, the commission added.
Chief secretaries are tasked with circulating the directions to district magistrates, police and municipal officials and are urged to promote local crafts under the ‘Vocal for Local’ campaign.
Sita Devi, a potter from Varanasi, said she had been forced to relocate twice last year, losing half her sales in the process.
States must submit action‑taken reports by 18 October 2026, after which the NHRC will review compliance and may hold a follow‑up hearing on 20 October.