Srinagar, June 29: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has written to Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, seeking his immediate intervention over the alleged unauthorised collection of money from livestock transport vehicles passing through Punjab, saying the practice is causing financial losses to traders and impacting meat prices in Jammu and Kashmir.
In a letter dated June 23, 2026, Omar Abdullah said the issue was brought to his notice by the All Kashmir Wholesale Mutton Dealers Union, which highlighted the hardships faced by livestock traders and transporters while transporting animals from outside the Union Territory through Punjab.
According to the letter, livestock-laden vehicles bound for Jammu and Kashmir are allegedly being stopped by contractor groups associated with cattle fairs and subjected to unauthorised fee collection despite carrying valid permits and all required documentation. The Chief Minister noted that such interruptions reportedly result in avoidable delays, financial losses to transporters and concerns over animal welfare.
The letter further stated that the matter had been examined by the Department of Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Government of Jammu and Kashmir, through an internal committee. The committee reportedly found that transporters were being compelled to make substantial payments per vehicle without any apparent legal sanction.
It also observed that livestock movement is exempt from GST and warned that the continued imposition of such charges places an additional burden on the livestock trade, ultimately increasing meat prices and affecting consumers across Jammu and Kashmir.
Highlighting the long-standing ties between Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah said both regions share a relationship of friendship, cooperation and economic interdependence. He added that any such practices, if found to be taking place, are inconsistent with the spirit of mutual cooperation and have caused concern among the trading community.
The Chief Minister also informed his Punjab counterpart that the tendering process related to cattle fairs is likely to commence shortly. He said stakeholders have expressed apprehension that unless suitable safeguards are put in place, the alleged practices may continue during the upcoming contract period, leading to recurring financial hardship for livestock traders.
Seeking prompt action, Omar Abdullah urged Bhagwant Mann to have the matter thoroughly examined and ensure the smooth, secure and unhindered movement of livestock transport vehicles through Punjab. He further requested that no unauthorised interference or collection of charges be permitted from transporters carrying valid documents and complying with all statutory requirements.
The letter concludes with Omar Abdullah expressing hope for Punjab’s support and cooperation in resolving the issue in the interest of traders and consumers alike.(KNC)
