Srinagar, Dec 26,: The Jammu Kashmir Students Association has said that the Union government has taken serious note of the recent assault on a Kashmiri shawl seller in Kashipur town of Uttarakhand and has assured strict action against those involved in acts of violence and intimidation targeting Kashmiri traders.
The Jammu Kashmir Students Association said that after the matter was taken up with the authorities, assurances were received from the highest levels of the Government of India that such incidents would not be tolerated under any circumstances.
The Association said the Ministry of Home Affairs has issued clear directions to all concerned authorities to ensure the safety and security of Kashmiri shawl sellers and traders operating in different parts of the country. It warned that any individual or group attempting to spread fear, insecurity or hostility towards Kashmiri people and students would face strict and exemplary action as per law.
Providing details of the case, the Association said police have registered an FIR and arrested the main accused, identified as a Bajrang Dal leader, who allegedly thrashed a Kashmiri shawl seller in Kashipur. All other accused persons involved in the incident have also been taken into custody.
According to the statement, FIR No. 517/25 has been registered under Sections 191(2), 115(2), 351(3), 352, 304, 62, 292 and 126(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Police teams were constituted immediately after the incident, raids were conducted at multiple locations and arrests were made. Legal proceedings have also been initiated against the accused under relevant provisions of the Police Act.
The Association said further investigation in the matter is underway and expressed hope that the case would be pursued to its logical conclusion to ensure justice and deter similar incidents in the future. [KNT]
