Srinagar, July 24 (KDC): In a major development likely to trigger a meat crisis in Kashmir, the region’s mutton dealers have collectively decided to suspend the transportation of live livestock from outside states, citing rampant extortion by contractors at Punjab checkpoints, particularly at Shambu Border and Madhavpur.
The Mutton Dealers Association alleged that transporters bringing livestock into Jammu and Kashmir are being illegally charged as much as ₹20,000 per truck by certain contractors and individuals operating at these border points. As a result, many trucks loaded with sheep are currently being held up at these checkpoints, causing serious disruptions to the supply chain.
Mehrajuddin Ganai, General Secretary of the Mutton Dealers Association, said the decision was taken after extensive deliberations with stakeholders and suppliers from Rajasthan, Sikar, Flodi, Delhi, and Ambala. “This is not a sudden reaction. The situation has been building for months. The illegal demands at these borders are bleeding us financially. We are no longer in a position to sustain this trade under such oppressive conditions,” Ganai said.
Mukhtar Ahmad Mutoo, a prominent mutton dealer in Srinagar, told news agency Kashmir Dot Com (KDC) “Contractors at Punjab borders are extorting ₹20,000 per truck. They are charging a hefty and unjustified amount, which is simply unacceptable to us. Many of our trucks are stranded at Shambu and Madhavpur. We demand immediate intervention from the government to stop this harassment.”
The dealers warned that unless swift action is taken by authorities to curb the extortion and ensure safe, lawful passage for livestock transporters, Kashmir will soon face a severe shortage of mutton.
“This situation is spiraling out of control. The government must intervene now, or the meat market in the Valley will collapse,” the association said.
The mutton industry in Kashmir is heavily dependent on livestock supplies from northern Indian states, and any prolonged disruption could significantly impact consumers, especially with ongoing demand during the summer season. (KDC)
