J&K Leaders React to 'Harassment' of Kashmiri Shawl Vendors in Himachal, Demand Action

It is the responsibility of authorities in J&K to take up this issue with their counterparts in HP

- HT Correspondent

SRINAGAR: Political leaders in Valley have demanded stern action against those who are "harassing" Kashmiri shawl vendors in Himachal Pradesh and sought intervention of Himachal chief minister.

In the past several weeks, the Kashmiri shawl vendors have complained regarding alleged harassment in many areas in Himachal Pradesh. Hundreds of shawl vendors in winter months travel to Punjab and Himachal Pradesh to sell their products.

In a viral video on X, shawl vendors from Kupwara are seen complaining of alleged harassment and threats in Himachal Pradesh. Mushtaq Ahmad Tantray, a resident of Kupwara district, says that some people are harassing them and telling them to leave the area in Bilaspur.

"When we go out with our goods or to buy essentials, they torture us. We ask our government, don't we Indians have a right to earn our livelihood. If that is not the case then the government here should tell us to leave," he said.