Hyderabad Court Convicts Vendors for Blocking Tourist Pathway at Charminar

Five women street vendors have been found guilty by a court in Hyderabad for repeatedly blocking a pedestrian pathway designated for tourists visiting the Charminar and Mecca Masjid.

The First Special Judicial Magistrate Court convicted the vendors on May 25 after they appeared before the bench to answer charges related to their activities on the main road connecting Gulzar House to Charminar. The women had been selling artificial flowers along the stretch despite multiple warnings from authorities.

The court imposed monetary penalties of Rs 200 on each vendor and mandated them to undertake community service at Charminar Police Station until 5 pm on Sunday as part of their sentence.

The five women—Anju Singh, Sabi Devi, Manu Devi, Manisha, and Shakuntala—are originally from Alwar in Rajasthan but currently reside in the Meerpet area of Hyderabad, specifically near TKR Kaman at Nandana Vanam.

Charminar Police registered cases against the vendors on May 23, invoking Section 66-C of the CP Act and Section 292 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The road in question had been specifically reserved to facilitate safe passage for tourists and visitors to the historic monument and mosque.

The police department stated that it would maintain a firm stance against any further obstructions of pedestrian routes and thoroughfares within the heritage zone. Officials emphasized that these enforcement measures are essential for protecting the movement and safety of both tourists and residents who frequent the area.

The action represents part of broader efforts by local authorities to maintain order and accessibility in one of Hyderabad's most visited tourist destinations.