Kolkata, 12 June (H.S.) : Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Friday reiterated his government's firm stance against illegal encroachment of public spaces, stating that no individual or group has the right to occupy footpaths meant for pedestrians. At the same time, he assured that the state government would adopt a humane approach towards hawkers and explore rehabilitation measures through special welfare schemes.
Addressing a press conference at the Biswa Bangla Convention Centre in New Town, Adhikari said the rights of the general public must take precedence over unauthorised occupation of roads and footpaths.
“People have the right to walk on footpaths. No one has the right to encroach upon them,” the Chief Minister said, defending the ongoing anti-encroachment drives that have become a major focus of the state government since it assumed office.
The remarks come amid criticism from opposition parties and concerns over the future of thousands of hawkers affected by recent eviction operations in various parts of the state.
Clarifying the government's position, Adhikari said that while encroachment of footpaths and major roads would not be tolerated, cases involving occupation of unused government land would be considered on humanitarian grounds.
“Where there is vacant government land and no public requirement, such cases will be examined humanely. However, large roads and footpaths in Kolkata cannot be handed over to anyone. My responsibility is towards the people,” he said.
The Chief Minister stressed that public interest would remain the government's top priority and that the interests of a small group could not override the rights of the larger population.
Referring to congested commercial areas, he cited locations such as New Market, Rajabazar and Metiabruz, saying that public roads cannot be blocked to the extent that even motorcycles are unable to pass through.
Adhikari also sought to reassure hawkers about their livelihood prospects, stating that the government was working on plans for their welfare and rehabilitation. He referred to existing schemes of the Union government for street vendors and indicated that the state would introduce additional support measures through the Labour Department.
“Gradually, the government will bring schemes for hawkers. This government is humane and the issue will be handled humanely. We will explore possibilities of rehabilitation on unused or vacant government land wherever feasible,” he said.
However, he made it clear that the immediate priority would be to clear illegally occupied public spaces and restore access to roads and footpaths.
The Chief Minister's comments are being seen as the clearest indication yet that the state government intends to continue its anti-encroachment campaign while simultaneously working on rehabilitation options for affected hawkers.
Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh
