Vendors protest against Sabzi Mandi contractor

The vendors of Sabzi Mandi at Karabara chowk today held a protest at the Police Commissioner’s office against the contractor who has been entrusted with collecting user charges from them. They urged the top cop to take action against the contractor who apart from overcharging, also resorts to hooliganism in the Sabji Mandi.

While holding a protest, the vendors alleged that for the last several years, they have been doing their business by setting up makeshift vends at Sabji Mandi, Karabara Chowk, and despite facing harassment from the contractor, no action was being taken against him by the authorities concerned.

“The contract for collection of user charges from the market committee Ludhiana for selling fruits, vegetables and other eatables in the market from April 1, 2024 to March 31, 2025. has been given to a contractor and the rate of a 50 square feet vend has been fixed at Rs 100 per day but the contractor charges a minimum of Rs 300 to Rs 500 per day. Not only this two-wheeler parking has been made free by the Mandi Board. Despite this, the contractor is charging Rs 30 from every visitor. The contractor charges exorbitantly from other vehicles against the fixed norms,” alleged the vendors.

The protesters also alleged that the contractor had some associates who misbehave with the vendors and even slap them if they speak out against overcharging.

“We have complained several times to the officers of the Market Committee, Ludhiana and the Punjab Mandi Board, Mohali, but the officials concerned have never taken any action against the contractor, rather they would ask the contractor to shut up the vendors. It seems that the officials are also hand in glove with the contractor. Please save us from illegal extortion and loot by the contractor and ensure justice,” alleged the vendors.