Omar Abdullah Condemns Attack on Kashmiri Shawl Vendor in Uttarakhand, Urges CM Dhami to Take Strict Action

Jammu, January 29, 2026: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has taken immediate cognizance of the alleged assault on a Kashmiri shawl vendor in Uttarakhand. On Thursday, CM Abdullah spoke with Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, urging strict action against the perpetrators. This was confirmed by the office of the Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister.

Omar Abdullah’s Statement:
CM Abdullah condemned the incident, drawing parallels with recent attacks in Himachal Pradesh. “Such attacks are intolerable and must be prevented at all costs,” he said. He emphasized that while Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India, its residents continue to live under fear when in other parts of the country. Abdullah assured that the government would take all necessary measures to ensure such incidents do not recur. He also expressed hope that the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, would raise awareness in other states about such matters.

Call for Action Against Perpetrators:
The Jammu and Kashmir CM Office posted on social media platform X that CM Abdullah had spoken to CM Dhami regarding the attack on a young Kashmiri shawl vendor in Uttarakhand and urged that strict action be taken against those responsible. CM Abdullah further stated that CM Dhami assured him that a First Information Report (FIR) would be registered and strong action would be taken to ensure the safety of Kashmiri residents in the state.

PDP Condemns the Incident:
Earlier, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader Iltija Mufti strongly condemned the attack and demanded action against the culprits. In a post on X, Mufti stated that the 18-year-old vendor was beaten with an iron rod until his bones were shattered. She described the incident as one of several acts of violence against Kashmiris in India, highlighting the impunity enjoyed by the offenders.

Political Repercussions:
Iltija Mufti further criticized the ruling BJP, alleging that the party was actively mainstreaming individuals involved in such acts. Addressing Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami, she questioned whether the state government could be relied upon to take immediate and effective action.