Srinagar, August 1: The Kashmir Trade Alliance (KTA) has urged the Jammu and Kashmir government to urgently intervene and resolve the ongoing crisis faced by mutton dealers, who allege being subjected to extortion and undue harassment during the transit of livestock truckloads through Punjab.

The situation has escalated following a strike by mutton dealers in protest against what they describe as repeated instances of extortion and arbitrary charges imposed en route. As a result, the supply of mutton to the Valley has nearly dried up at a time when the region is witnessing the peak of its marriage season — leading to significant inconvenience for consumers, businesses, and families alike.

KTA President, Aijaz Shahdhar expressed concern over the disruption, stating that the issue not only impacts food supply chains but also affects the livelihoods of those engaged in the mutton trade and the larger economy dependent on it during the ongoing festive and wedding period.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

While the government has constituted a committee to look into the matter, KTA stressed that the situation demands expedited action. “Given the urgency and public inconvenience caused by the strike, we appeal to the administration to fast-track the committee’s findings and ensure a time-bound resolution that protects the rights of dealers and restores normalcy in supply,” Shahdhar said.

KTA also called for coordination between the J&K and Punjab governments to ensure safe and hassle-free passage for livestock transporters in the future and prevent recurrence of such issues.

KTA reiterated its support to lawful trade practices and urged all stakeholders to work towards a resolution that upholds both regulatory norms and the dignity of legitimate business operators.