KD News Desk
Srinagar, June 29: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has written to Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, urging immediate intervention to stop the alleged unauthorized collection of money from livestock transport vehicles passing through Punjab on their way to Jammu and Kashmir.
In his communication, Abdullah referred to complaints raised by the All Kashmir Wholesale Mutton Dealers Union, alleging that trucks carrying livestock to Jammu and Kashmir are being stopped by certain groups despite possessing all valid documents and are being forced to make substantial unauthorized payments.
The Chief Minister said an internal inquiry by the Jammu and Kashmir Department of Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs found that some transporters had reported paying illegal charges to ensure uninterrupted movement of livestock. The inquiry also noted that livestock movement is exempt from GST, making such collections unlawful and an unnecessary burden on the trade.
Abdullah warned that the continued imposition of unauthorized charges could increase the cost of mutton in Jammu and Kashmir, adversely affecting both traders and consumers.
Highlighting the longstanding economic ties between Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab, the Chief Minister requested the Punjab government to ensure the smooth, secure and unhindered movement of livestock transport vehicles. He also called for strict safeguards, particularly ahead of the upcoming cattle fair tendering season, to prevent further financial losses and hardship for the trading community.
