In yet another hate incident from Surjanpur village in Himachal Pradesh’s Hamirpur district, two Kashmiri businessmen faced communal harassment allegedly instigated by the wife of a local Sarpanch.
A video of the incident, now circulating widely on social media, shows the woman threatening the men, urging villagers to boycott their business, and coercing them to chant “Jai Shri Ram.”
“Why should we buy from Kashmiris. Do they give us things for free? Even if they do, we shouldn’t but anything from them,” the woman is heard urging others.
The young man in the video tells the woman that they too are from India, but soon they are seen leaving from the venue. Before asking the duo, including an old aged man to leave, she is heard telling the duo, “Raise Jai Shri Ram slogans,”
“Do not come to Himachal. The land belongs to Hindus, you will not be allowed to sell any products here,” the woman said, while asking the cameraperson to keep shooting the video.
The two men had traveled to the region for business purposes, but their stay was marred by the hostility they encountered.
Authorities in Hamirpur have yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident.
Kashmiri traders, known for their resilience and entrepreneurial spirit, often travel far from their homeland, carrying the traditional market of Kashmir to distant regions.
These traders, who bring with them a rich array of goods, including the famous Pashmina shawls, saffron, dry fruits, and intricately crafted handicrafts, play a crucial role in promoting Kashmiri culture and economy.
By setting up makeshift markets in various parts of India and beyond, they not only sustain their livelihoods but also act as cultural ambassadors, sharing the artistry and heritage of Kashmir with the wider world.
Despite facing numerous challenges, including discrimination and political unrest, these traders remain a symbol of the enduring spirit of the Kashmiri people.