SRINAGAR: In a shocking incident from Surjanpur village, in Himachal’s Hamirpur district, two Kashmiri businessmen faced communal harassment, allegedly instigated by the wife of a local Sarpanch.
A video of the incident, which has gone viral on social media, shows the woman verbally abusing the men, urging villagers to boycott their business, and demanding they chant “Jai Shri Ram.”
“Why should we buy from Kashmiris? Do they give us things for free? Even if they do, we shouldn’t buy anything from them,” she says in the footage while calling for the ostracisation of Kashmiri traders.
One of the businessmen, visibly distressed, attempts to explain that they are Indian citizens. However, the confrontation intensifies, with the woman asserting, “Do not come to Himachal. The land belongs to Hindus; you will not be allowed to sell any products here.”
The two men, one of whom is elderly, are among thousands of Kashmiri traders who travel across India selling handicrafts to sustain their livelihoods. This incident has sparked outrage online, with many condemning the communal overtones and harassment faced by the traders.
The traders eventually left the village after the altercation, leaving behind a sense of unease among onlookers.
The video has prompted calls for action from various quarters, with people urging the Himachal Pradesh authorities to investigate the matter and ensure the safety of all individuals conducting business in the region, regardless of their background.
The incident raises serious concerns about communal harmony and the treatment of Kashmiri traders, who play a vital role in promoting the region’s cultural heritage through their handicrafts.
Efforts to contact local officials for comment have so far been unsuccessful. (With KNS inputs)
