Visually impaired street vendors stage sit-in at Maitighar (Pictures)

Nabin Babu Gurung

Kathmandu, June 24

Visually impaired and partially sighted individuals staged a sit-in protest at Maitighar Mandala in Kathmandu.

The protesters, who have been earning their livelihood by using the footpaths as their workplace, launched the movement in opposition to the crackdown and forced eviction attempts carried out by various government authorities.

Participants in the protest said, "Enduring rain, dust, and smoke is not our choice, but a compulsion," warning that they would not leave the footpaths unless alternative employment opportunities or proper rehabilitation arrangements are provided.

They urged the government and relevant bodies to ensure their right to livelihood and provide dignified alternatives for employment.

The sit-in, organized by a group of self-employed visually impaired entrepreneurs who rely on footpath-based businesses, called for an immediate halt to forced removals and demanded that viable livelihood alternatives be explored.