Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru
Mangaluru, May 23: The Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) has launched its ‘Tiger Operation’ to evict illegal street vendors, starting May 22. This move follows a surge in public complaints about footpath encroachments and disruptions to both pedestrian and vehicular movement.
This is not the first time the MCC has taken such action. A similar drive in recent months had sparked protests and strong objections from various quarters. However, the MCC has pressed ahead, citing the need to restore public spaces and ensure smooth traffic flow.
Alongside the vendor eviction, the MCC has reiterated its strict stance against the erection of unauthorized banners across the city. Officials emphasized that such banners not only create visual clutter but also pose serious risks to road safety by obstructing the visibility of oncoming traffic, particularly when placed on medians and at major junctions.
Ironically, despite the ban, the city was heavily adorned with banners on May 16 during the chief minister’s visit and a cooperative bank event on May 10. From the airport to the programme venue, banners lined the route, yet no action was taken by authorities to remove them. This selective enforcement has drawn sharp criticism from residents.
Citizens have expressed frustration over what they perceive as double standards. “Why are rules only for the common man?” questioned a local resident. “Elected representatives continue to put up banners without facing any consequences, while small vendors are immediately penalized.”
On the second day of the operation, the Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI) and other groups voiced their opposition to the MCC's actions, alleging that the enforcement disproportionately targets the vulnerable.
While the MCC’s efforts to reclaim public spaces and maintain civic order are commendable, the apparent inconsistency in rule enforcement has fuelled public resentment. For such initiatives to gain broader support, the administration must ensure that regulations apply equally to all, be it citizens or elected officials. Only then can civic reforms truly serve the interests of a fair and orderly city.