A Bench comprising Justice Sanjay Karol and Justice Nongmeikapam Kotiswar Singh observed that the notification was issued during the extraordinary circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic and had outlived its purpose.

The Bench said that after discussions with all concerned, including court officials and the amicus curiae, there was a consensus that the July 17, 2020 notification should be set aside. The court clarified that the notification in force prior to July 2020 would now continue to apply.

The Supreme Court also directed the Chandigarh Administration to shift all licensed street vendors to the recently identified vending zones at the earliest.

The Bench further ordered that the vending zones should be made fully operational and monitored regularly by civic authorities to ensure smooth functioning. It also directed the administration to install appropriate signboards in commonly used languages and provide essential public amenities wherever they are lacking.

To strengthen safety and security, the court ordered the installation of CCTV cameras in all vending zones within six months. It also directed that proper arrangements be made for storing CCTV footage for a prescribed period to assist authorities whenever required.

In addition, the court asked the Chandigarh Administration to consider launching a dedicated helpline for street vendors and customers.

The order came while hearing a petition seeking the removal of street vendors from the Manimajra area of Chandigarh.

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