Kashmiri Shawl Sellers Attacked In Uttarakhand; Omar Abdullah Calls Incident 'Unacceptable'

This news report details a distressing incident in Uttarakhand where Kashmiri shawl sellers were allegedly attacked based on their religious and regional identity. The victims claimed that while purchasing snacks, a shopkeeper made casteist and religious remarks, referenced the Pahalgam attack, and physically assaulted them. One individual was reported to be seriously injured during the confrontation. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has intervened, speaking with the Uttarakhand Chief Minister and describing the attack as 'unacceptable.' He further urged the Home Ministry to sensitize other states regarding such communal issues. The Congress Party condemned the assault, noting the irony of artisans who create shawls for high-ranking officials facing such harassment. Local police have since registered an FIR and arrested the main accused involved in the case. The programme highlights the growing concerns over the safety of Kashmiri traders and the 'abnormalization' of Kashmir's existence within the country as noted by political leaders.