MCD accused of corruption in rights to hawkers

New Delhi, Mar 28: A senior journalist Madhu Kishwar today alleged in the Supreme Court that the MCD was running an extortion racket to the tune of Rs 500 crores per year under the garb of giving 'tehbazari' rights to hawkers in Delhi.

Ms Kishwar, in her petition before a Bench comprising Justices B P Singh and H S Bedi, alleged that the 'tehbazari' rights were being issued to a hawkers' mafia while genuine hawkers were being left high and dry. The petitioner also objected to the process of allotment of hawking sites and kiosks in the city through draw of lots as there was no transparency in the process and most of the licenses were cornered by the mafia.

The counsel for the MCD, however, denied the allegation of corruption.

The Court also directed the MCD, the NDMC and the petitioner to complete their submissions before the next date of hearing.

The Court, while adjourning the hearing of the case till April 3, also clarified that it has not imposed any ban on roadside cooking. The only concern was that cooking should be done under hygienic conditions.

The apex court has banned hawking in non-hawking zones but exempted the weekly bazaars held in various parts of the city.

Meanwhile, the Court has suggested the creation of food courts for cooking under hygienic conditions.

UNI