Rehan Qayoom Mir
Srinagar, Jul 24: In a step likely to affect meat supply across Kashmir, the Mutton Dealers Association of Kashmir on Thursday suspended the transportation of live animals from outside states, citing daily extortion and harassment at checkpoints in Punjab and other parts of India.
The association expressed regret to the public, especially families with upcoming weddings and functions, but said they are unable to continue under the current circumstances. They have repeatedly appealed to the government for intervention, but claim no concrete action has been taken.
Mehrajuddin Ganai, General Secretary of the association, said the decision was made after their pleas went unaddressed. “Our vehicles are routinely stopped at Shambu and Madhopur checkpoints in Punjab. Truckers are forced to pay bribes ranging from Rs 10,000 to Rs 15,000. Today alone, over 50 sheep died due to heat and delays. This is a huge loss, and we simply cannot continue like this,” he said.
Ganaie said the issue has continued for a long time, despite multiple meetings with officials, including J&K’s Food and Supplies Minister Satish Sharma. “We have repeatedly asked for help, but no action has been taken. We are sorry to the public, but we are helpless. This is not a strike; it is a forced decision,” he said.
Mehrajuddin informed that the association has notified their suppliers in Rajasthan, Sikar, Firozpur, Delhi, and Ambala about the suspension and has received full support. “Everyone is suffering; this is not just our problem. The administration must act,” he urged.
He called on the J&K government, especially Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, to send a high-level team to Punjab to assess the situation firsthand. “We are ready to provide any documents or details needed for the investigation. But immediate action is necessary,” he said.
Recalling a similar crisis in 2016, when a cabinet minister was sent to Punjab and the issue was addressed, Ganai expressed hope for a similar response now. “This isn’t just about trade; it’s about the livelihoods of thousands and the food security of Kashmir,” he said.
He called for establishing a permanent solution and a monitoring mechanism to ensure the smooth movement of livestock, especially during peak wedding and festival seasons. “If extortion and harassment continue, we will be forced to suspend operations indefinitely. The government’s response will determine our next steps,” Ganaie warned.
The suspension is expected to significantly affect the availability of meat in Kashmir, which heavily relies on livestock imports from northern Indian states.
