SRINAGAR: Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari, the president of the Apni Party, has voiced serious concerns about reports of harassment faced by Kashmiri shawl vendors in Himachal Pradesh. Allegations suggest that local miscreants in parts of the state, particularly in the Bilaspur district, have been threatening and intimidating these vendors, urging them to abandon their trade and return to Kashmir.
Taking to his X handle, Bukhari highlighted the plight of the vendors, many of whom have been working in the region for over three decades. “I have been informed that Kashmiri shawl vendors and street hawkers in Himachal Pradesh are continuously facing harassment and threats from some local miscreants. They are being asked to leave the place and return home. Even their landlords are being pressured to evict their Kashmiri tenants,” he wrote.
I have been informed that Kashmiri shawl vendors and street hawkers in Himachal Pradesh are continuously facing harassment and threats from some local miscreants. They are being asked to leave the place and return home. Even their landlords are being pressured to evict their…
— Altaf Bukhari (@SMAltafBukhari) December 26, 2024
Bukhari emphasised that it is the responsibility of Jammu and Kashmir’s authorities to address this issue with their counterparts in Himachal Pradesh. He underscored the vulnerability of these traders, stating, “These are poor people earning their livelihood. Some of them have been going there for the past two to three decades and have established a customer network. Their livelihood must be protected.”
Reports indicate that despite having valid documentation and proper verification, these shawl sellers are being barred from conducting their business. Additionally, landlords hosting Kashmiri tenants are allegedly facing coercion to evict them. Local sources claim that certain right-wing groups are involved in escalating the intimidation, targeting dozens of traders who depend on this seasonal business to support their families.
The allegations have sparked concern about the safety and rights of Kashmiri vendors who travel outside the region for work. The situation has called attention to the need for intervention to ensure their protection and to uphold the principles of coexistence and mutual respect.
Authorities in both Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir are yet to respond publicly to the concerns raised. The Apni Party leader’s remarks come as pressure mounts on officials to prevent further intimidation and safeguard the livelihoods of these long-standing contributors to the region’s economy.
