Kashmiri traders in Himachal Pradesh face brutal attacks by Hindutva groups
Srinagar: In a troubling and persistent pattern of targeted violence against Kashmiris across India, Kashmiri shawl sellers in Himachal Pradesh are facing increasing persecution, physical assaults, and threats from Hindutva-aligned groups.
According to Kashmir Media Service, Mehbooba Mufti, president of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), expressed grave concern over the situation, emphasizing that Kashmiri traders in Bilaspur district of Himachal Pradesh are being targeted despite possessing all the necessary documentation for their business. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), she stated, “Kashmiri shawl sellers in Bilaspur are being harassed, assaulted, and threatened by right-wing groups. Despite having proper documents, they are being barred from conducting their businesses and forcibly evicted.”
Mufti noted that this marks the third such incident, underscoring a disturbing and ongoing trend of discrimination against Kashmiris. She warned that such acts of violence and injustice would only deepen the sense of alienation felt by Kashmiris.
The PDP leader called for immediate intervention from the chief ministers of both Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) and Himachal Pradesh to ensure the safety and security of these traders.
The attacks on Kashmiri shawl sellers, a key part of the traditional handicraft industry in IIOJK, have raised serious concerns not only about their personal safety but also about the long-term impact on their livelihoods.
