In Jammu and Kashmir where the beef ban controversy has triggered protests across the state, business leaders from Jammu and Srinagar said they are now coming together to keep the economy running.
In a rare display of bonhomie, Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industries (KCCI) and Jammu Chamber of Chamber (JCCI) said their they have launched a campaign against “forces who want to recreate a situation like 2008 in the state”.
Last week a Srinagar-bound truck was attacked by a mob at Udhampur near Jammu after rumours that three cows had been slaughtered. Three Kashmiri truck drivers were injured and many complained of protesters trying to create an economic blockade against Kashmir.
The attack was a reminder of the clashes and economic blockade in 2008 when several Kashmiri truck drivers were attacked and one was burnt alive in protests against Kashmir over the transfer of land in the state to the Amarnath Shrine Board.
The protests have flared after the High Court’s decision to enforce a long-standing ban on sale and consumption of beef in the state. While some groups support the ban, others object.
“We have learnt a lot from 2008. Maybe from every incident. We didn’t achieve anything because of that agitation. It was rather a huge loss for business community in Jammu and Kashmir,” said Rakesh Gupta, president JCCI.
“Our action will never be limited to follow such people and get them punished. That I can assure you because the government of Jammu and Kashmir under the constitution will have to give us protection,” he said.
For years the state’s two powerful business lobbies have been at odds with each other because of traditional political dynamics. In 2008 both the trade bodies were on the forefront of agitation over Amarnath land row.
“Jammu chamber has assured us that no one will be allowed to attack Kashmiri truckers – that’s why Mr Gupta has personally come here to show solidarity with people and business community in Kashmir,” said Mushtaq Ahmad president of KCCI.
