JKSA seeks HP CM Sukhu’s help to stop attacks on Kashmiri shawl sellers

Srinagar, Feb 3: Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) on Tuesday condemned yet another incident of harassment and intimidation of Kashmiri shawl sellers reported from Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh, terming it the ninth such case this year.

The association said local goons allegedly threatened Kashmiri traders who were attempting to earn an honest livelihood.

National Convenor Nasir Khuehami said the incident reflects a deeply alarming and recurring pattern of targeted harassment and intimidation faced by Kashmiri shawl sellers across the state. Despite possessing valid documents and having undergone proper verification by authorities, traders are allegedly being unlawfully prevented from conducting business, raising serious concerns about arbitrariness and discrimination, as per a press release.

“These shawl sellers have contributed significantly to the local economy for decades and have become an integral part of Himachal Pradesh’s social and cultural fabric. Today, a reign of terror has been created, pushing them into fear and uncertainty solely because of their identity,” the association said.

Association urged Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu to intervene immediately, ensure the swift identification and arrest of those responsible, and issue clear directions to the police and district administrations to protect Kashmiri traders and their livelihoods. “This growing atmosphere of threats and intimidation has the potential to destroy livelihoods built over generations and further alienate an already vulnerable community,” it warned.

The association described it as deeply ironic and alarming that such incidents continue in states that otherwise claim to uphold constitutional values, pluralism and minority protection. “The silence and lack of outrage in INDIA-bloc-ruled states is conspicuous. Selective condemnation and selective protection undermine justice and equal citizenship,” it said.

Strongly criticising the state government, Association said the absence of decisive action, preventive measures and clear political messaging has sent a dangerous signal that harassment of Kashmiri traders can continue without consequences, and reiterated its demand for immediate, firm and visible action to end the climate of fear.