Breaking News: Rise in Attacks on Kashmiri Traders in India
Srinagar, Indian-administered Kashmir – A surge in violence against Kashmiri shawl sellers has raised concerns about their safety while traveling across India. Ayaz Ahmad, a 28-year-old trader, has created a WhatsApp group to share safety tips with nearly two dozen other sellers.
Recent incidents include the brutal attack on 18-year-old Tabish Ahmad Ganie in Uttarakhand, where he was struck with an iron rod by a shopkeeper. Ganie suffered severe injuries, including fractures and stitches. He stated he was targeted solely based on his identity as a Kashmiri Muslim.
Reports indicate around 200 attacks on Kashmiri traders and workers have occurred recently, with many facing harassment and threats. In a separate incident, shawl vendor Bilal Ahmad was assaulted for refusing to chant a nationalist slogan, prompting him to return to Kashmir for safety.
Political leaders in Kashmir have condemned the violence. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has urged federal intervention to protect Kashmiris. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has also denounced the attacks, although concerns persist about rising anti-Kashmiri sentiments across India.
