Saima Bhat

SRINAGAR

The president of Fruit Association Shopian, Mushtaq Ahmad Malik’s residence was allegedly attacked by pesticides and fungicides dealers of the area for “creating awareness” among the fruit growers. Mushtaq has lodged a formal complaint against the attackers with the police after he received “threat calls”.  

Mushtaq’s residence according to family sources was attacked on April 02, 2014 at 11 AM by around 20 people who had assembled outside his residence in Shopian.

“My house was attacked with stones by around 20 dealers of pesticides and fungicides operating in our district. They were even abusing me and my family outside the main entrance of our house,” Malik informed Kashmir Life.

Malik informed that it was only after some locals intervened that dealers left the place.

Malik believes that his active role in creating awareness among farmers regarding use of certified oils and fungicides has irked these dealers who according to him sell sub-standard products.

“I keep on telling farmers to get a proper voucher from the dealers while purchasing pesticides and fungicides. And purchase only those oils and fertilisers which are recommended by SKUAST. Our Apple industry is in chaos. I just want to help farmers.”

Malik alleged that government is indifferent to farmer’s woes. “These dealers increase prices at will as there is no competition in the market. MNC’s who earlier used to sell quality products are barred by these dealers from selling their products in Shopian. There is such a huge gap between demand and supply.”

Malik has formally complained with the concerned police station as he continues to get threat calls from the dealers to stop his awareness campaign for the farmers.

Muzaffar Ahmad, SHO Shopian informed Kashmir Life that two FIR’s stand registered in this case. “FIR 50/2014 was registered by Mushtaq and another FIR 49/2014 was registered by the dealers against Mushtaq.” He further informed that the dealers are alleging that Malik had come to a particular shop where he has alleged the owner for selling fake pesticides, which the owner took as an insult.”

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