HP CM Sukhu visits Kashmir, says attacks on shawl sellers ‘politically motivated’

Srinagar, Feb 19: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Thursday described attacks on Kashmiri shawl sellers and students in his state as “rare” and claimed such incidents are often “exaggerated” for political motives, even as his government moved swiftly to arrest the accused in a recent case.

As per KNS,Sukhu addressed concerns regarding the safety of Kashmiris in his state, a popular tourist destination and educational hub for people from the valley.

The Chief Minister detailed the response of the state administration. “I immediately ordered an investigation and we arrested the accused within 24 hours,” Sukhu said, emphasizing a policy of zero tolerance. However, he cautioned against what he described as a trend of amplifying isolated events. “Very few such incidents take place. For centuries, our Kashmiri brothers and sisters have been coming to Himachal. That is their second home,” he stated, in an effort to reassure the community. Sukhu revealed that he had discussed the matter with his J&Kcounterpart, Omar Abdullah, indicating a coordinated approach between the two governments to ensure the safety of migrants and tourists.

The Chief Minister urged the Kashmiri community to continue their business and educational pursuits in his state without fear. He advised anyone facing a threat to immediately alert the police by dialing the emergency number 112, assuring them of prompt action.