Shimla, August 30
The Lakkar Bazaar traders have threatened to close the market and launch a peaceful hunger strike from September 1, alleging that several of their long-pending demands remain unresolved despite repeated representations to the authorities.
The Lakkar Bazaar Traders’ Unity Committee, in a memorandum submitted to the Deputy Commissioner, Superintendent of Police and Municipal Commissioner, said issues related to the market had been repeatedly raised with the concerned departments and the Shimla Municipal Corporation. However, the committee claimed that no effective action had been taken on the demands so far.
The traders said they had decided to intensify their agitation if immediate action was not taken. As part of the proposed protest, Lakkar Bazaar would remain closed from September 1 and traders would observe a peaceful hunger strike.
The committee’s demands include effective implementation of decisions taken earlier by the Lakkar Bazaar Trade/Town Vending Committee and the Shimla Municipal Corporation. It has also sought action against illegal and unauthorised vending and booths operating within designated areas.
The traders have demanded verification of the number of street vendors, issuance of vendor cards and strict checks to ensure compliance with the prescribed rules. They have also sought action against unauthorised encroachments and illegal street-vending zones identified through surveys and videography carried out by the municipal corporation.
Safety of children and the general public in and around schools and other public places in the Lakkar Bazaar area is another issue highlighted by the committee. It has urged the authorities to strictly enforce the applicable rules and guidelines to ensure public safety.
The committee appealed to the administration to take its proposed agitation seriously and coordinate with the concerned departments to examine the traders’ grievances and take necessary action on the pending demands.
It also made it clear that the proposed agitation would be peaceful and democratic and urged the district administration and police to make necessary arrangements to maintain law and order during the protest.
The traders have further asked the Shimla Municipal Corporation to examine the issues and earlier decisions mentioned in the memorandum and provide a clear written report on the action taken.
The memorandum was submitted by the Lakkar Bazaar Traders’ Unity Committee, Shimla, on August 29, 2026.
