Srinagar, June 29 (KINS): Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has written to Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, seeking urgent intervention to stop the alleged unauthorized collection of money from livestock transport vehicles heading to Jammu and Kashmir through Punjab.
In a formal communication, Omar Abdullah highlighted complaints received from the All Kashmir Wholesale Mutton Dealers Union, which alleged that vehicles carrying livestock to J&K are being stopped during transit and forced to make hefty payments despite possessing all valid documents.
The Chief Minister said an internal inquiry conducted by the J&K Department of Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs found that transporters were reportedly being compelled to pay substantial amounts per vehicle without any apparent legal sanction. The inquiry also noted that livestock transportation is exempt from GST, making such collections unjustified.
According to the findings, these alleged unauthorized charges are increasing the cost of transporting livestock, ultimately leading to higher mutton prices and placing an additional financial burden on consumers in Jammu and Kashmir.
Emphasizing the long-standing economic ties and friendly relations between Punjab and Jammu & Kashmir, Omar Abdullah urged the Punjab government to take immediate steps to ensure the smooth, secure, and uninterrupted movement of livestock vehicles. He also called for strict safeguards, particularly ahead of the upcoming cattle fair tendering process, to prevent further financial losses and hardship for traders.(KINS)
CM Omar Abdullah urges Punjab Government to ensure hassle-free livestock transit to J&K
