Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has reached out to Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann concerning unauthorized charges on livestock transport vehicles passing through Punjab. Mutton traders in Kashmir have initiated an indefinite strike due to complaints about heavy unauthorized levies imposed by certain contractor groups on livestock vehicles bound for J&K transiting through Punjab.
Abdullah, in his letter to Mann, highlighted the concerns raised by the All Kashmir Wholesale Mutton Dealers Union regarding the challenges faced by livestock traders and transporters from Jammu and Kashmir during their passage through Punjab. The union reported that despite possessing valid permits and necessary documentation, livestock-laden vehicles heading to J&K are being stopped by contractor groups associated with cattle fairs and forced to pay unauthorized fees.
The J&K government’s Department of Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs conducted an internal review, revealing that transporters are being coerced into making significant payments per vehicle during transit without any legal backing. Abdullah emphasized that such actions lead to unnecessary delays, financial losses, and hardships for transporters, impacting animal welfare and exacerbating meat prices for consumers in Jammu and Kashmir.
Stressing the historical friendship and economic ties between Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir, Abdullah urged Mann to investigate the matter and ensure the smooth and unimpeded movement of livestock transport vehicles through Punjab. He requested Mann’s assistance in preventing unauthorized charges and disruptions for transporters adhering to legal requirements, seeking cooperation to address the issue effectively.
