Kashmir Mutton Dealers End Strike After Punjab, JK Govt Intervention

SRINAGAR: To streamline cattle trade and address growing complaints from the mutton dealers of Kashmir Valley, the Punjab Government has appointed Nodal Officers at district levels to monitor and resolve issues related to cattle fairs. The appointment follows the awarding of a Rs 92.56 crore contract to AL Baber Marketing Pvt. Ltd for organizing the state’s cattle fairs for the year 2025–26.

According to an official communication from the Animal Fair Branch of the Rural Development and Panchayat Department, Punjab, districts bordering other states will deploy at least 2-3 Nodal Officers, while one officer will be posted in districts not adjoining other states. These officers will monitor animal trucks entering Punjab from neighboring states including Jammu and Kashmir and address disputes, particularly regarding the purchase and sale of animals and fee payments.

The department noted an increase in complaints regarding vehicles loaded with cattle from other states entering Punjab and disputes over payments between contractors and traders. To address these, the Nodal Officers, typically SEPOs or POs, will verify documents of animal purchase, check transport legality, and handle grievances. Their details, including name, designation, contact number, and email ID, are to be shared with the head office.
Moreover, the department has instructed that boards be installed at all check points displaying the name and mobile or email ID of the designated Nodal Officer for public ease. Officers are required to send monthly reports to the department before the 5th of every month.

Following this proactive initiative by the Punjab Government, mutton dealers from Kashmir Valley have called off their ongoing strike. Mehrajuddin Ganaie, General Secretary Mutton Dealers Association informed that operations at all cattle markets have resumed.

“The assurance and steps taken by the Punjab Government were satisfactory. We have ended the strike,” Ganaie said. He added that the Jammu and Kashmir Government played a crucial role during the negotiation phase, with the Commissioner Secretary and Director of Food and Supplies from JK maintaining constant communication with the dealers throughout their stay in Punjab.

The mutton dealers expressed gratitude to both governments, appreciating the swift coordination that led to the resolution of the deadlock, which had earlier disrupted meat supply in the Kashmir Valley. [KNT]