Ajmer: A dispute in Gyan Vihar Colony has raised concerns about selective action against a Muslim street vendor. Arif Mohammad, who has been selling eggs in the locality for over a year, alleged harassment by Arvind Parashar, husband of councillor Pratibha Parashar.
Arif said he was being told to vacate the spot on the grounds that it is a non-vending zone, even though other stalls in the same area continue without objection. “This cart is the only source of income for my family. Many others also put up stalls here, but only I am being told to leave. This is discrimination,” he told reporters.
The matter gained wider attention when Rashtriya Loktantrik Party’s district convener, Ashish Soni, intervened. He filed a written complaint with District Collector Lokbandhu, demanding action against Parashar. Soni argued that a single vendor should not be singled out while others are ignored. “Targeting a hardworking man while sparing others is biased treatment that must not be overlooked,” he said.
Councillor Pratibha Parashar denied the charge. She said the spot near an empty plot is unsafe because people consume alcohol there. “It is not safe to put up a cart at such a place. We advised him to move elsewhere, but some people are trying to create unnecessary controversy,” she stated.
The incident has divided local opinion. Some see it as a matter of civic order, while others view it as discriminatory. The District Collector’s office confirmed receiving the complaint and said the matter is under review.
Arif remains firm on his stand. “I only want to work honestly and feed my family. Why am I being stopped when others are allowed?” he asked.
