Srinagar, Jun 29: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has written to Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, seeking his intervention to address the issue of alleged unauthorised fee collection from livestock transport vehicles transiting through Punjab and ensure the unhindered movement of livestock consignments destined for Jammu and Kashmir.
In his letter, the Chief Minister highlighted the concerns raised by the All Kashmir Wholesale Mutton Dealers Union regarding the difficulties being faced by livestock traders and transporters while transporting livestock through Punjab. He informed that livestock-laden vehicles bound for Jammu and Kashmir are reportedly being stopped by certain contractor groups operating in connection with cattle fairs and subjected to unauthorised fee collection despite carrying all valid permits and statutory documentation, causing avoidable delays, financial losses, and hardship to transporters, while also adversely affecting animal welfare.
Referring to the findings of an internal committee constituted by the Department of Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Government of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah said the committee had found that transporters were reportedly being compelled to make substantial payments per vehicle during transit without any apparent legal sanction.
“Livestock movement is exempt from GST,” the CM said, adding that continued imposition of such charges is placing an additional burden on the livestock trade, with consequential implications for meat prices and consumers across Jammu and Kashmir.
Emphasising the longstanding ties between the two neighbouring states, the Chief Minister said Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir share enduring bonds of friendship, cooperation, and economic interdependence. “Any such practices, if found to be occurring, are inconsistent with the spirit of mutual cooperation that has traditionally characterised relations between the two governments,” he said.
The Chief Minister also drew attention to reports that the tendering process relating to cattle fairs in Punjab is likely to commence shortly, and conveyed apprehensions that, unless appropriate safeguards are put in place, the alleged practices may continue during the forthcoming contract period, leading to recurring financial hardship for livestock traders.
Seeking Punjab’s intervention, Omar Abdullah requested Bhagwant Mann to have the matter examined and ensure the smooth, secure, and unhindered movement of livestock transport vehicles through Punjab, with no unauthorised interference or collection of charges from transporters carrying valid documentation.
Expressing confidence in the spirit of cooperation between the two governments, the Chief Minister conveyed his gratitude in advance for Punjab’s support in resolving the issue in the interest of traders, consumers, and the seamless movement of essential livestock supplies between the two regions.
