MHA Says
New Delhi/Uttarakhand: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has taken serious note of the assault on a Kashmiri seasonal shawl seller in Uttarakhand, stating that any form of violence, intimidation, or harassment against Kashmiri traders will not be tolerated under any circumstances.A senior MHA official said the incident had been viewed with the utmost seriousness by the government. “The Ministry has taken strong cognisance of the matter and made it clear that such acts targeting Kashmiri shawl sellers are completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated at any cost,” the official said.Reaffirming the constitutional rights of Kashmiri traders, the official emphasised that Kashmiris are equal citizens of India, with the right to live, travel, and earn their livelihood in any part of the country without fear or discrimination. “No citizen can be targeted on the basis of region or profession,” the official added.According to official sources, the assault occurred on the afternoon of Monday, December 22, 2025, in the Kashipur area of Udham Singh Nagar district. The victim, Bilal Ahmad Ganie (28), a shawl seller from Kupwara district of Jammu and Kashmir, was allegedly attacked while going door to door as part of his seasonal trade a practice he has pursued each winter to support his family during the harsh months in the Valley.Bilal, who has been visiting Uttarakhand for over eight years, is among many Kashmiri traders who travel across northern India during winter to sell traditional handwoven products. Locals familiar with him described Bilal as a soft-spoken and peace-loving trader with no history of misconduct.The MHA has directed the Uttarakhand administration to ensure the safety, dignity, and freedom of movement of Kashmiri traders and seasonal workers operating in the state. The Ministry has also instructed officials to take prompt and strict legal action against those responsible, in accordance with the law.Officials stressed that attacks based on identity not only violate the law but also undermine the principles of constitutional equality, social harmony, and national unity. The Centre’s firm response is being viewed as a clear signal that there will be zero tolerance for hate-driven violence or discrimination against any citizen, anywhere in the country.Sources said the government remains committed to ensuring that every Indian regardless of region, religion, or profession can pursue livelihood opportunities in an atmosphere of security, dignity, and mutual respect.
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