The Jammu & Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) has raised concerns over the alleged harassment of a Kashmiri shawl vendor in Kaithal, Haryana, urging the Chief Minister’s Office for immediate intervention and strict action against the perpetrators.
According to the JKSA, the vendor was subjected to abuse, intimidation, and heckling, marking yet another disturbing incident targeting Kashmiri traders outside the Union Territory. The association condemned the act, describing such repeated harassment as deeply troubling and indicative of a growing pattern of prejudice and hostility.
Nasir Khuehami, the National Convenor of JKSA, spoke to Rajeev Jaitly, Media Advisor to the Haryana Chief Minister, highlighting the urgency of the situation. Jaitly assured that violence or intimidation against Kashmiri shawl sellers would not be tolerated and that strict action would be taken in connection with the Kaithal incident. He also reiterated the Haryana government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and dignity of all citizens, including traders and workers from Jammu & Kashmir.
Khuehami called on the Haryana authorities to promptly register a case and take swift action against those responsible. He emphasized that branding hardworking Kashmiri traders as “anti-nationals” is not only unjust but also undermines the Constitution and the values of India.
In its statement, JKSA highlighted that shawl vendors travel across the country, earning their livelihood honestly, and deserve protection under the law. The association appealed for firm action to ensure the safety, dignity, and legal rights of Kashmiri traders are upheld, urging authorities to send a clear message that such acts of harassment will not be tolerated.
This incident adds to growing concerns over the treatment of Kashmiri traders in other parts of India, prompting civil society and student organizations to advocate for their safety and equal rights.
