No selling without 'Thela Number', Delhi vegetable market imposes new rule

Street vendors at Najafgarh’s vegetable market in Delhi have been directed to display their names and phone numbers on nameplates on their carts. The new policy, introduced in a meeting between the local councilor and the market association, is designed to deter suspected illegal Bangladeshi and Rohingya migrants from selling produce in the market.

The market association has outlined that every vendor must affix a nameplate with their name, contact information, and a unique "thela number" (cart number) assigned by the association. Additionally, all vendors are required to submit identity documents, including Aadhaar cards, for verification purposes. This record will be maintained by the market association and shared with local law enforcement and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD).

Local BJP councilor Amit Kharkhari emphasized that the measure is not intended to target any specific community but rather to enhance overall security in the market area. He further clarified that the objective is to establish a record of sellers for easier identification and to address grievances from buyers.

Santosh Rajput, president of the Nazafgarh Vyapar Mandal, stated that there are approximately 300 vendors who regularly sell produce in the market. "With this move, we aim to improve the system in the vegetable market. If the names and phone numbers of vendors are displayed on their carts, any buyer with a grievance can report it to us. This will also help us identify illegal migrants selling goods. We will forward their details to the MCD and the police," Rajput explained. The association intends to complete the verification process by November 20.

The policy specifies that any vendor without the required nameplate will not be permitted to sell produce in the market. Rajput noted that this rule will not only streamline the identification of vendors but will also provide accountability, making it easier for customers to address any grievances directly to the association.