During village feast fairs, vendors come with the hope of earning their livelihood, but sadly they are facing harassment instead. The so-called sopo collectors, appointed by the Village Panchayat, demand arbitrary and excessively high amounts without any fixed government-approved rates or proper receipts.
Vendors are intimidated using muscle power, with bodybuilders accompanying the collectors, creating fear and forcing vendors to pay whatever amount is demanded. In some cases, after paying the legal collector, illegal persons again demand money, leading to arguments and threats. Though the land belongs to the Church, both Panchayat and Church authorities must ensure transparency and fairness.
Such illegal collections, extortion, and intimidation are discouraging vendors from participating in village fairs, resulting in losses and damaging the festive spirit. I request the authorities to intervene immediately, fix transparent sopo rates, stop harassment, and protect vendors’ rights so village fairs remain a celebration, not a source of fear.
