A SOCIO LEGAL ANALYSIS UNDER THE STREET VENDORS (PROTECTION OF LIVELIHOOD AND REGULATION OF STREET VENDING) ACT, 2014

The informal sector plays a significant role in the Indian economy, with street vendors contributing substantially to urban employment, local trade, and affordable access to goods and services. However, despite their economic importance, street vendors have historically faced legal uncertainty, harassment, forced evictions, lack of social security, and inadequate recognition of their livelihood rights. In this context, the Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act, 2014 was enacted to provide a legal framework for the protection, regulation, and rehabilitation of street vendors across India.

This study undertakes a socio-legal analysis of the Act by examining its objectives, implementation mechanisms, and impact on the lives of street vendors. The research explores how the legislation seeks to balance the constitutional right to livelihood under Article 19(1)(g) and Article 21 of the Constitution of India with the need for urban planning, public order, and municipal regulation. The study further analyses the role of Town Vending Committees (TVCs), the process of vendor registration and certification, and the challenges faced in effective implementation at the grassroots level.

The research also investigates the socio-economic conditions of street vendors, including issues relating to poverty, gender discrimination, police harassment, corruption, and access to welfare measures. Through a critical examination of judicial decisions, government policies, and practical realities, the study highlights the gap between legislative intent and ground-level execution. It argues that while the Act represents a progressive step toward inclusive urban governance and livelihood protection, several administrative, political, and structural obstacles continue to hinder its effectiveness.

The study concludes that stronger institutional accountability, awareness among vendors, transparent licensing systems, and participatory governance are essential for achieving the objectives of the Act. The research emphasizes the need for a rights-based approach that recognizes street vending not merely as an economic activity but as a legitimate means of livelihood deserving legal protection and social dignity in a democratic society like India.