Himachal Pardesh introduces mandatory vendor identification policy; Similar to UP's model

Himachal Pradesh street vendor policy:  The Congress-led government in Himachal Pradesh, under Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu, has introduced a controversial policy mandating street vendors and shopkeepers to display their names and identity cards. This move, reportedly inspired by a similar order in Uttar Pradesh under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, has triggered widespread debate. The decision mirrors the earlier directive in Uttar Pradesh, where businesses were required to reveal their and their employees' identities.

Street vendors in Himachal Pradesh must display IDs

Himachal Pradesh's Public Works Department Minister Vikramaditya Singh confirmed that the new policy requires food stall owners and other street vendors to display identity cards. The minister stated that the decision was taken in response to increasing concerns about the influx of vendors from outside the state. "We have decided to make it mandatory for street vendors to show their identity cards, similar to the ones being issued in Uttar Pradesh. The food department will also monitor the quality of food provided by these vendors," Singh explained, as reported by Moneycontrol.

Nameplate order sparks debate 

Addressing the controversy surrounding the nameplate order, Minister Vikramaditya Singh told ANI that the move was essential to maintain peace and law and order in Himachal Pradesh. "In light of recent incidents, it is our responsibility to ensure the safety of our citizens. Municipal councils have emphasized the need for town vending committees to be formed regularly. While we welcome people to Himachal for work, it is crucial to prioritize security. Our aim is to maintain harmony and peace in the state," he added.

This new policy has drawn criticism from various quarters, with some accusing the government of following in the footsteps of the UP model it had previously criticized. However, the Himachal Pradesh government has maintained that the decision is necessary for the state's security and order.