J&K Students Association Delegation Meets IG Law and Order, Uttarakhand; Demands Special Grievance Cell for Kashmiri Students and Shawl Seller

A delegation of the Jammu and Kashmir Students Association, led by its National Convenor, Nasir Khuehami, on Thursday met with Dr. Nilesh Anand Bharne, Inspector General of Police (Law and Order) and Spokesperson of the Police Headquarters, Uttarakhand. The delegation apprised the IGP of various issues faced by Kashmiri students and shawl sellers in the state and sought immediate redressal.  

During the meeting, Khuehami emphasized the need for the establishment of a dedicated grievance cell to address the safety and security concerns of Kashmiri students, shawl sellers, and vendors. He urged the IGP to ensure the mechanism is implemented in letter and spirit, particularly in areas like Mussoorie, where a significant number of Kashmiri shawl sellers have been conducting business for decades. 

Khuehami proposed the appointment of a special nodal officer for Kashmiri students and shawl sellers in Uttarakhand, similar to arrangements in other states and union territories. “Such an officer would act as a single point of contact for reporting grievances and seeking support. Previously, this mechanism existed in Uttarakhand following incidents post-Pulwama attack, but it has since become non-operational. Reviving and strengthening this initiative, alongside a dedicated helpline, will provide much-needed confidence to students, businessmen, and vendors,” he said. 

Highlighting challenges faced by Kashmiri vendors in Mussoorie, Khuehami pointed out cases of harassment and abuse by certain local elements, which threaten their livelihoods and communal harmony. He urged the IGP to take proactive steps to address these issues and ensure their safety and dignity. “It is crucial to prevent such incidents from escalating, as seen in 2017, 2018, and 2019, which later garnered national attention,” he added. 

Khuehami further noted that Kashmiri students and businessmen contribute significantly to the local economy and society in Uttarakhand. “Their presence is an integral part of the nation’s fabric. Ensuring their safety will strengthen the bonds of unity and inclusiveness,” he asserted.  

Responding to the concerns raised, Dr. Bharne assured the delegation that all possible measures would be taken to safeguard the interests of Kashmiri students and vendors. He added that a meeting with the Director General of Police, Ashok Kumar, would be facilitated to address these issues comprehensively. 

The IGP also appreciated the efforts of the Jammu and Kashmir Students Association, led by Nasir Khuehami, for its nationwide welfare initiatives and youth-centric programs across the Union Territory and beyond. He encouraged the association to continue projecting the concerns of the youth and contributing to their development.