SRINAGAR, JULY 23: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs (FCS&CA), Transport, IT and Youth Services & Sports, Satish Sharma, has taken serious cognizance of reports alleging harassment and obstruction faced by Jammu & Kashmir’s livestock traders at the hands of certain cattle fair contractors in Punjab.
During an interaction with the representatives of the All Kashmir Wholesale Mutton Dealers Union, the Minister was apprised of alleged unlawful practices, including unauthorized stops of livestock-laden vehicles en route J&K, by the private contractors exceeding their authority.
The Minister was informed that such actions are causing prolonged delays, financial losses and serious risk to animal welfare, as livestock are subjected to extended travel without proper ventilation, food or water. Not only do these acts violate the legal provisions but they also raise grave humanitarian and economic concerns for traders of the Union Territory.
Expressing deep concern over the issue, Satish Sharma reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to safeguard the rights and interests of J&K’s trading community. “We will take up the matter at the highest level to ensure immediate redressal,” the Minister stated.
He further assured that the issue will be formally raised with the Government of Punjab and immediate directions will be issued to the Transport Department and other relevant authorities to coordinate closely with their counterparts in Punjab to ensure the smooth, lawful and uninterrupted movement of livestock from Jammu & Kashmir.