Mangaluru: Woman street vendor attempts suicide after harassment over unauthorized auto stand

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Aug 22, 2025: For the past month, a woman street vendor has been facing continuous harassment from an autorickshaw drivers’ association and municipal officials after an unauthorized autorickshaw stand was set up at a spot meant for street vending. Although the municipality had not granted permission for the rickshaw stand, political pressure was allegedly exerted to force its clearance.

 

 

Unable to bear the losses in her flower vending business and the repeated harassment, the woman vendor, Shalini (48), attempted suicide. She is in critical condition and has been admitted to the ICU at A.J. Hospital.

The incident occurred near Bondel Junction on Airport Road, where an unauthorized autorickshaw stand was constructed using funds from a Member of the Legislative Council (MLC), despite the absence of municipal approval.