Srinagar, Dec 26: The Chamber of Commerce and Industry Kashmir (CCIK) on Thursday welcomed the timely action taken by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) against individuals involved in the harassment and intimidation of Kashmiri shawl vendors in different parts of the country.
In a statement issued here, CCIK President Tariq Rashid Ghani expressed gratitude to the Union Home Minister Amit Shah and the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, for their prompt intervention, saying the response had provided much-needed reassurance to the affected traders and their families.
Ghani said there had been disturbing reports, along with widely circulated videos on social media, showing Kashmiri shawl vendors being harassed and intimidated while carrying out their lawful business outside Jammu and Kashmir. He noted that these vendors travel across the country, particularly during the winter season, to sell traditional shawls and handicrafts as a means of earning an honest livelihood when local economic opportunities decline.
The CCIK observed that the swift action by the Ministry of Home Affairs against the culprits sends a strong message that such acts of harassment will not be tolerated and that the safety and dignity of citizens engaged in legitimate trade will be protected. The chamber said the intervention has helped restore confidence among Kashmiri traders who contribute significantly to the country’s cultural and economic fabric.
Reiterating its long-standing demand, the CCIK called for ensuring the safety, security, and dignity of Kashmiri businessmen and traders across the country, irrespective of where they conduct their business. The chamber emphasised that the freedom to trade without fear or discrimination is a fundamental right and a key component of economic integration.
The CCIK further stated that the action reflects the true spirit of democracy and secularism, where minorities are safeguarded and all religions and communities are respected. It expressed hope that sustained vigilance and close coordination between central and state authorities would prevent the recurrence of such incidents and allow Kashmiri traders to pursue their livelihoods in a secure and respectful environment.
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