Danishwar Hameed
In a remarkable display of solidarity, local Sikhs in the Madewaal area of Ferozepur, Punjab, came forward to support a Kashmiri shawl seller who was assaulted and looted on February 5.
The victim, identified as Abdul Khaliq Ganai from Kralpora Kupwara, was reportedly threatened at gunpoint by non-local thieves who robbed him of his shawls, phone, and ₹32,000 in cash. “The shawl seller, named Abdul Khaliq Ganai from Kralpora Kupwara, was intimidated by a pistol by some non-local thieves, and his belongings, including shawls, phone, and ₹32,000 in cash, were looted,” a local told The Kashmiriyat.
Upon learning of the incident, locals intervened, apprehended the thieves, and handed them over to the police. However, when the stolen cash could not be recovered, the community arranged ₹60,000 and gave it to Ganai, who survived the injuries. Despite their efforts, the local police took no action in the case.
Speaking about the gesture, Manjit Singh, a local Sikh community member, said, “Kashmiris have always helped us in times of trouble when we visit the Valley. We share a bond that goes back a long way. Just as they stand by us in Kashmir, we can never stay behind when they are in need. It is our duty to support each other.”
The heartfelt act by the Sikh community has been widely appreciated, reflecting the spirit of unity and mutual respect between the two communities.