Jammu and Kashmir Leaders Condemn Mob Attack on Kashmiri Shawl Seller in Uttarakhand
Leaders from Jammu and Kashmir have strongly condemned the recent alleged mob attack on a young Kashmiri shawl seller in Uttarakhand, where the victim sustained multiple fractures and serious injuries. They have voiced their concerns about the rising incidents of such violence in states governed by the BJP and called for strict action against the perpetrators.
The victim, a minor from Kashmir who had traveled to Uttarakhand to sell shawls, was reportedly assaulted by a group of individuals, sparking widespread political reactions. Leaders from various parties have described the incident as disturbing and indicative of growing intolerance.
Jammu and Kashmir Congress President Tariq Hameed Karra expressed deep concern over the incident, highlighting it as a troubling trend. He pointed out that such attacks are part of a sustained campaign by right-wing elements and are not limited to specific states but are occurring nationwide under the influence of right-wing forces.
Karra further alleged that states governed by the BJP witness a higher frequency of such incidents, attributing them to the policies and environment created by right-wing ideologies.
Independent MLA Shabir Ahmad Kullay also condemned the assault and urged the Uttarakhand government to take decisive action. He emphasized the need for preventing similar incidents in the future, identifying and apprehending the culprits, and ensuring strict legal consequences for their actions.
Congress spokesperson Surendra Rajput raised concerns about the targeting of Kashmiri youths in BJP-ruled states, citing instances of violence and coercion in different regions. He underscored the need for holding accountable those responsible for such attacks and ensuring the safety and security of all citizens.
Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) spokesperson Zuhaib Yousuf highlighted the economic challenges faced by Kashmiri youths, leading them to travel across the country for livelihood opportunities. He expressed dismay over the normalization of violence and intolerance, calling for a united effort to prevent such incidents from defining the social fabric of the nation.
National Conference spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq revealed that Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had intervened in the matter, leading to the arrest of the main accused in the assault case. Sadiq emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of individuals traveling to other states and holding the authorities accountable for protecting their rights.
Responding to criticisms, BJP spokesperson Pratul Shah Deo assured that the Uttarakhand government was conducting a thorough investigation into the incident and would ensure that those responsible faced appropriate consequences. He reiterated the party’s stance against any form of violence and pledged to take strict action against the guilty parties.
The prompt intervention by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah resulted in the arrest of the main accused, signaling a commitment to justice and ensuring the safety of individuals across state borders.
