Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Jan 19: People’s Democratic Front (PDF) chief and former Minister, Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen today expressed deep anguish and serious concern over a fresh and alarming wave of harassment, intimidation and targeted assaults against Kashmiri shawl sellers in several states, including Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Haryana.
In a statement issued here, Hakeem Yaseen urged Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Lt Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to intervene immediately to ensure the safety, dignity and livelihood of Kashmiri traders who earn their bread through lawful and honest means across the country.
Hakeem said that reports of Kashmiri shawl sellers being harassed, threatened, assaulted and forced to leave their places of work are deeply disturbing and reflect a dangerous trend that cannot be ignored. “It is extremely unfortunate that despite repeated assurances by authorities and representations made at different levels, Kashmiri traders continue to face hostility and violence in various parts of the country,” he said.
The PDF president noted that Kashmiri shawl sellers, many of whom travel seasonally to different states, are among the most hardworking sections of society and have long contributed to the local economies wherever they work.
“These traders are ambassadors of Kashmir’s rich culture and craftsmanship. Targeting them not only hurts individual families but also damages the image of communal harmony and brotherhood that India stands for,” he added.
Yaseen said that fear and insecurity among traders have increased sharply, forcing many to consider returning home and abandoning their only source of income.
Calling for immediate action, Hakeem urged the Union Ministry of Home Affairs to issue clear directions to the concerned state governments to provide full security to Kashmiri traders and take strict action against those involved in harassment or violence.
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