SRINAGAR: With Ramzan approaching, mutton prices have once again witnessed a sharp spike across Kashmir, triggering resentment among consumers who allege that butchers have started charging rates above the officially fixed price.
Locals said that while the official rate of mutton was Rs 650, it has now been fixed at Rs 700 per kilogram. However, several butcher shops across the region are selling it at Rs 750 per kg and even higher in some areas.
“On the ground, most butchers have already increased the price to Rs 750 per kilo,” said a local resident from Khanyar. He alleged that the hike has become a yearly practice ahead of Ramzan. “Every year, as Ramzan approaches, mutton prices are arbitrarily increased and no one checks it,” he added.
Another resident from Soura, Abdul Rashid, said the rising prices have made it difficult for common families to afford mutton during the holy month. “This is happening openly and authorities remain silent. How can a poor family manage such prices during Ramzan?” he questioned.
Another local from Habba Kadal, Sahil Mir, said, “Every year, we see butchers hike mutton rates whenever the month of Ramzan approaches. The government must take action—why should it remain silent?”
Meanwhile, mutton dealers have made public an official communication related to interstate livestock movement, saying that repeated efforts to resolve supply-related issues have not yielded any outcome.
One of the members of the Mutton Dealers Association said they are being pushed towards taking “harsher steps” due to continued inaction.
“We have held meetings, written letters and even followed official channels, but nothing has come out of it. We are being forced into a corner. What option do we have left?” the dealer said, adding that unresolved issues related to livestock movement have impacted supply and pricing.
The dealers said they decided to make the official correspondence public to highlight the seriousness of the issue and the lack of response despite sustained follow-up.
Consumers, however, have urged the administration to intervene immediately, ensure strict implementation of approved rates, and prevent exploitation of people ahead of Ramzan.
When the correspondent attempted to contact the minister in charge, he was unavailable for comment at the time. (JKNS)
