Kashmir Mutton Dealers Suspend Livestock Supply Amid Alleged Extortion at Punjab Borders
Srinagar July 25 (KINS): In a move that is already causing disruption in the Valley’s meat supply chain, mutton dealers in Kashmir have suspended the import of live animals from outside the Union Territory. The decision comes in response to alleged extortion by toll contractors at the Shambhu and Madhopur border checkpoints in Punjab.
Addressing a press conference, Mehrajuddin Ganai General Secretary of the Whole sale Mutton Dealers Association, says the action is taken after wide-ranging consultations. “This is not a unilateral decision. We have spoken to all major stakeholders. Our suppliers in Rajasthan, Sikar, Delhi, and Ambala have already been informed,” he states.
Ganai adds, “The situation at the Punjab borders has become unbearable. Truckers are being forced to pay illegal amounts—up to Rs 20,000 per vehicle—just to pass through. These unauthorized tolls have made our trade financially unsustainable. The ball is now in the government’s court. Unless there is strict action against this extortion, we cannot operate under such conditions.”
The suspension threatens to worsen meat availability in Kashmir, where a large portion of mutton supply depends on livestock brought in from northern Indian states.
Farooq Dar Co-Chairman of the Kashmir Economic Alliance (KEA), voices strong support for the mutton dealers. “We stand with them. This is not just a business issue—it is about the economic health of our region,” he says. “We are the guardians of Kashmir’s economy, and we will escalate the matter to the highest levels to ensure both the public and the traders do not suffer due to this exploitation.”
Dar also appealed to the Punjab government to intervene immediately and take decisive steps to stop the illegal practices at its borders. (KINS)
