Srinagar, Jan 21 (JKNS): Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) spokesperson Manzoor Bhat on Wednesday launched a scathing attack on the National Conference-led government, accusing it of administrative failure and political indifference over the unresolved harassment of Jammu and Kashmir livestock transporters at Punjab checkpoints, a crisis that has now pushed mutton prices to record highs ahead of the holy month of Ramzan and Eid.
In a statement BJP spokesperson said, Despite a written communication from the office of the J&K Minister for Food, Civil Supplies, Transport, Science & Technology and ARI Trainings seeking a government to government meeting to address the crisis Punjab authorities have shown complete indifference. No response was received, no meeting was scheduled, and repeated reminders have gone unanswered.
At key checkpoints such as Shambhu and Madhopur, livestock transporters continue to face illegal stoppages, extortion, and harassment. Trucks carrying livestock are being forced to pay bribes, severely impacting interstate trade and pushing traders into financial distress. This blatant lawlessness raises serious questions about inter-state coordination and governance.
Bhat said that the consequences are now being borne by the common people of Jammu and Kashmir. Due to this unchecked harassment and illegal levies, mutton prices across the Valley have surged to ₹750 per kilogram. If the situation continues, prices are bound to rise further, making mutton unaffordable for poor and middle class familiesespecially with the holy month of Ramzan and the festival of Eid approaching.
It is extremely unfortunate that while the National Conference government claims to stand for people’s welfare, it has failed to pursue this issue seriously. Sending letters as a mere formality without follow up reflects administrative weakness. When even a small but critical issue affecting daily life cannot be resolved in 47 days, how can people expect this government to fulfill the larger promises it made, many of which remain unfulfilled even after one and a half years, statement reads. (JKNS)
