Kashmiri shawl vendors allege harassment, intimidation by traders in Himachal
text_fields
Twenty-two Kashmiri shawl vendors have filed a police complaint at the Ghumarwin police station in Bilaspur district, alleging obstruction and intimidation from local shopkeepers while doing business and pressuring them to leave the state, although their complaint did not identify specific individuals.
The shawl vendors, hailing from Jammu and Kashmir, reported that they had provided their credentials to the police earlier this month before commencing their seasonal trade in the region. The dispute is reportedly linked to economic competition between the vendors and local shopkeepers, organised under the Ghumarwin Beopar Mandal, according to The Indian Express report.
Local authorities confirmed the receipt of the complaint, indicating that similar tensions had arisen in the past. Last year, local shopkeepers reportedly accused the Kashmiri hawkers of causing financial losses. No incidents of physical violence have been recorded, and the Bilaspur police have requested the intervention of the deputy commissioner to mediate and find an amicable resolution.
The Kashmiri traders, some of whom have been operating in the region for decades, have expressed concerns about a growing resistance to their presence in recent years. They alleged being subjected to intimidation despite the absence of physical confrontations.
Local shopkeepers, however, have denied allegations of harassment, asserting that the hawkers purchase goods from Ludhiana and sell them as Kashmiri products, which they claim affects their business.
The issue has drawn the attention of several organisations and political leaders. The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association has voiced concern and urged the Himachal Pradesh government to address the matter. The Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister’s office has reportedly assured that appropriate action will be taken.
Political leaders from Jammu and Kashmir, including former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti and Kupwara MLA Mir Mohammad Fayaz, have also intervened, urging authorities in Himachal Pradesh to ensure the safety of the traders. Discussions with senior officials, including the Himachal Pradesh Governor, have reportedly emphasised the need for a resolution and a safe environment for the vendors.