Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, Feb 5: Rubbishing the demand from EJAC for a speedy merger, the Handloom weaver community today called for the urgent unmerging of the Handloom and Handicrafts Departments.
In a statement issued here, community members stated that the merger has severely impacted the growth and sustainability of the Handloom sector, which requires a specialized and focused approach to compete with the mill sector and textile industries.
“Without immediate corrective action, this centuries-old heritage tradition will be at risk of extinction,” the statement said.
The weavers emphasized that the Handloom Department, established in 1977 under the leadership of Sher-i-Kashmir Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah has played a crucial role in empowering weavers, preserving traditional craftsmanship, and ensuring sustainable livelihoods for artisans across the Union Territory.
“The merger with the Handicrafts Department has diluted this focus, leaving weavers struggling for survival in an already competitive industry,” they added.
Furthermore, the statement said that Handloom weavers and society holders strongly condemned the demand made by the Employees Joint Action Committee (EJAC) for the completion of the merger.
“The EJAC, as an employee association, has no connection or jurisdiction over the affairs of the Handloom Department, which is solely dedicated to the upliftment of the weaver community.”
The weavers further added: “Unlike employees who continue to enjoy privileges, including salaries and promotions, it is the weaver community that has suffered the most due to this merger.”
The community urged the Government to recognize this injustice and take immediate steps to reverse the decision.
The Handloom weaver community has called upon the Government to restore the Handloom Department as a separate entity, ensuring that the legacy of handloom craftsmanship is preserved.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
