Jammu, 29 June (H.S.): Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has written to Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, seeking his intervention to address the issue of alleged unauthorized fee collection from livestock transport vehicles transiting through Punjab and ensure the unhindered movement of livestock consignments destined for Jammu & Kashmir.

In his letter, the Chief Minister highlighted the concerns raised by the All Kashmir Wholesale Mutton Dealers Union regarding the difficulties being faced by livestock traders and transporters while transporting livestock through Punjab.

The Chief Minister informed his Punjab counterpart that livestock-laden vehicles bound for Jammu & Kashmir are reportedly being stopped by certain contractor groups operating in connection with cattle fairs and subjected to unauthorized fee collection despite carrying all valid permits and statutory documentation.

He pointed out that such interruptions are causing avoidable delays, financial losses and hardship to transporters, while also adversely affecting animal welfare.

Referring to the findings of an internal committee constituted by the Department of Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Government of Jammu & Kashmir, Omar Abdullah said the committee had found that transporters were reportedly being compelled to make substantial payments per vehicle during transit without any apparent legal sanction.

The Chief Minister further noted that livestock movement is exempt from GST and observed that the continued imposition of such charges is placing an additional burden on the livestock trade, with consequential implications for meat prices and consumers across Jammu & Kashmir.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Krishan Kumar