Guwahati: GMC Orders Ganeshguri Poultry Market to Be Cleared, Traders Cry Foul

GUWAHATI: The Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) on Monday reportedly issued an order to clear the poultry market near the Ganeshguri daily market, triggering outrage among traders who have accused the civic body of arbitrary action and legal violations.

According to affected vendors, GMC officials arrived and instructed them to vacate the market within just 10 minutes, allegedly without any prior notice or formal communication. The sudden directive has left dozens of traders shocked, raising concerns over their livelihoods and future business prospects.

The order to clear the poultry market comes ahead of the inauguration of the newly constructed GMC market complex, scheduled to be inaugurated by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on February 25. Sources indicate that the poultry market located in front of the new market complex has been directed to be cleared as part of preparations for the inauguration and redevelopment process.

However, traders have questioned the legality of the directive, claiming that due process was not followed. They have also expressed uncertainty over whether existing vendors will be accommodated in the new market complex, adding to their anxiety.

Vendors Allege Harassment and Broken Promises

Speaking to DY365, a poultry vendor said there are around 12 shops in one lane and another seven shops in a separate lane. The vendor recalled that in 2014, they vacated the area after a formal meeting with the GMC commissioner, following assurances that a proper market complex would be constructed.

“Despite vacating the area for a proper market complex, no shopping complex has been built till date. This is harassment. We have families to run. How will we survive if we are repeatedly asked to vacate?” the vendor said.

The trader further claimed that they were asked to vacate in December last year, forcing them to shut down their business for nearly five months. They later approached the court and obtained a stay order before reconstructing their shops.

“Today again, GMC officials came and asked us to vacate within 10 minutes. This is unacceptable,” the vendor added.

Another vendor said they are legitimate traders paying rent and holding valid trade licences.

“We are paying rent to GMC and we have all genuine documents and updated trade licences. If they want to develop the shopping complex, they must cooperate with us and follow the law. Nobody can drag us out like this,” the vendor said.

Debate Over Traders’ Rights and Transparency

The incident has reignited debate over the rights of small traders and the transparency of municipal officials in relocation and rehabilitation processes. Meanwhile, the traders have demanded clarity on rehabilitation plans and space allocation in the new market complex.

GMC officials are yet to issue a detailed response to the allegations.

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