‘Don’t Act Like Lawyers, We’ll Beat You and Drive You Away’: Executive Officer’s Threats to Street Vendors Spark Outrage in Hathras

Hathras:
A video allegedly showing a senior municipal official threatening street vendors during an anti-encroachment drive in Uttar Pradesh’s Hathras district has gone viral on social media, triggering widespread criticism and raising questions about the conduct of public officials.

The official seen in the video is Vikas Kumar, Executive Officer (EO) of Sadabad Nagar Panchayat. The incident reportedly occurred during an anti-encroachment अभियान carried out jointly by the Nagar Panchayat and the Braj Bhoomi Expressway administration along the highway service lanes.

Heated Exchange During Encroachment Drive

According to local sources, officials were instructing vendors and shopkeepers to remove encroachments from the highway shoulders. During the operation, a heated argument broke out between the EO and several cart vendors who were allegedly delaying compliance.

In the viral video, the EO is heard using harsh and threatening language, saying:
“Don’t act too smart or like lawyers. We will beat you and drive you away from here. If you come in front of me again, expect to be beaten first. From tomorrow, nothing should be visible here.”

He is also heard warning that shops would be sealed, goods confiscated and thrown away, and criminal cases registered if anyone was found obstructing government work.

Video Triggers Public Anger

The video has sparked anger among traders, street vendors, and social media users, many of whom have questioned whether such language and threats are appropriate from a government officer during an administrative drive. Critics argue that while encroachment removal is a lawful duty, it must be carried out within the bounds of law and dignity.

No Official Response Yet

As of now, no official statement has been issued by the Nagar Panchayat or district administration regarding the incident or the conduct of the Executive Officer. It also remains unclear whether any internal inquiry has been initiated following the video’s circulation.

The episode has once again brought the spotlight on the need for accountability, sensitivity, and lawful conduct during enforcement actions, especially when they directly affect the livelihoods of small vendors and daily wage earners.