Jammu Tawi: Members of Rehari and Phari Union Association on Monday staged a strong protest in front of the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) office at Town Hall Jammu, demanding an end to the alleged harassment of small businessmen and daily earners by municipal authorities. The protest was led by Senior Congress Leader Narinder Gupta along with Subash Thakyal, Chairman of the Phari Union. Addressing the protesters, Narinder Gupta condemned the actions of the JMC officials, stating that Rehri and Phari walas—small street vendors and daily wage earners—play a crucial role in supporting their families by earning a living through their modest businesses. He alleged that the municipal authorities’ behavior was rude and oppressive, noting that these vendors were not occupying public roads or footpaths, yet they were being consistently harassed.
He urged the Jammu Municipal Corporation to reconsider its stance and adopt a more supportive attitude toward these essential members of the local economy.
Subash Thakyal, Chairman of the Phari Union, also addressed the protesters, stressing the need for a peaceful resolution and calling on the authorities to be more considerate of the difficulties faced by small vendors. Rajesh Kumar, President of the Phari Union, Garu Ram, General Secretary, and other members such as Fakir Chand, Sunil Kumar, Deepu, Romesh Kumar, Ram Lal Lakhan, Sham Lal, Satpal, Bharat Kumar, and Kishore also addressed the gathering.
