The Bombay High Court expressed strong disapproval of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and Mumbai Police for their inadequate response to the ongoing issue of illegal hawkers in Mumbai. During a hearing on petitions regarding street vending, Justices Ajay Gadkari and Kamal Khata questioned the lack of action from both authorities, highlighting a cycle of blame between the BMC and police. The court ordered an immediate inspection of critical areas, including stretches between Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus and Flora Fountain, to ensure compliance with previous directives. Advocates reported that while many areas were clear, concerns were raised in parts of Colaba regarding the validity of hawker licenses. The petitions, notably one from the Goregaon Merchants Association, pointed out rampant lawlessness and obstruction of pedestrian movement, particularly around Goregaon West railway station. The court also suggested potential collusion between authorities and hawkers, as vendors were absent during the inspection at Flora Fountain. The police claimed they lacked authority to verify licenses, but the court reminded them of existing directives for regular patrolling. A compliance report from the state government is required by the next hearing set for April 28.