Srinagar, June 29 (JKNS): Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has formally taken up the issue of alleged unauthorized charges on livestock transport vehicles with Bhagwant Mann, urging immediate intervention to ensure the smooth movement of mutton supplies to the Union Territory.
According to an official details available with news agency JKNS stated that, CM Omar Abdullah, in a formal communication to Punjab government highlighted grievances raised by the All Kashmir Wholesale Mutton Dealers Union regarding the alleged harassment of livestock traders while transiting through Punjab.
The Chief Minister said that despite carrying valid permits and necessary documentation, Jammu and Kashmir-bound livestock vehicles are reportedly being stopped by certain groups and forced to make substantial unauthorized payments.
The statement said an internal inquiry conducted by the Department of Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs found that transporters are allegedly being compelled to pay significant amounts per vehicle during transit without any apparent legal sanction.
The inquiry further observed that livestock movement is exempt from GST and that the continued imposition of such charges is placing an additional financial burden on the livestock trade, ultimately affecting meat prices and consumers in Jammu and Kashmir.
Emphasising the longstanding friendship and economic interdependence between Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah urged the Punjab Government to take immediate steps to ensure the smooth, secure and unhindered movement of livestock transport vehicles.
He also sought the introduction of strict safeguards ahead of the upcoming cattle fair tendering process to prevent recurrence of such alleged practices and protect the trading community from further financial losses and hardship. (JKNS)
