Question

Problems of ununited street vendors in india

Answer 1

There have broadly been five types of attempts to organize vendors:

1) Where exploitation crosses the maximum tolerance limit and informal leaders take the initiative, resulting in protests, dharnas, etc. Such collective actions have fostered solidarity and helped mould organizations. Where the struggle results in fostering a long term perspective, some organizations are registered. However, most remain unregistered and gradually fizzle out. They can be revived if the situation so demands.

2) Where a spokesman type of organization takes the initiative to organize vendors. The organizing could either be accidental or a conscious decision. These organizations act as catalysts in the formation of vendors’ organizations. While proceeding systematically with the struggle, they place emphasis on capacity building of the vendors themselves. These organizations also successfully demonstrate methods of negotiating with the administration.

3) Through central trade unions, which either organize unions or affiliate independent ones. Such unions exist in most cities. In large cities there are several small unions affiliated to a central trade union.

4) Where the vendor is protected by political parties. Such organizations are generally amorphous with no regular membership and elected leaders, with leaders of political parties liasing between government, party and members. In many such situations, political parties have advocated the cause of vendors. Unfortunately, we often see a change in the perspective of political parties and leaders, once in power.