Fear, anger among Kashmiris following attacks by fringe elements NC, BJP, Cong, PDP condemn

Srinagar Jan 30: The recent attacks and harassment of Kashmiris in various states has sparked fear and anger among the community, especially those working or studying outside Jammu and Kashmir.
In the last few weeks, a series of disturbing incidents in states like Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka have intensified concerns, with reports of Kashmiris being targeted by fringe elements. The most recent incident occurred in Uttarakhand, where a Kashmiri boy selling shawls was attacked, further heightening the sense of insecurity.

The attack, which has sent shockwaves was condemned by various political leaders across party lines. National Conference (NC), Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Congress, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), People’s Conference and Apni Party all voiced their outrage over the incident and called for swift action to ensure the safety and security of Kashmiris living and working in other parts of India. Senior politicians from these parties, irrespective of their ideological differences, have urged the authorities to take stringent measures to prevent such attacks and ensure that Kashmiris feel safe wherever they are.
Kashmiris, especially students and laborers, have faced challenges in other parts of the country. However, these recent attacks have exacerbated the sense of fear.
In response to these incidents, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah voiced his concern over the safety of Kashmiris, stating, “Unlike other states, I cannot ask my people to leave Jammu and Kashmir and seek employment elsewhere. We have seen what our people have faced outside in recent times, whether it was in Himachal Pradesh or what happened recently in Uttarakhand. As a result, our people are now looking inward rather than going outside. Therefore, to protect our people and provide them with sustainable opportunities, it is essential that we build a strong ecosystem for employment within Jammu and Kashmir itself.”
He also spoke to Chief Minister Uttrakhand who took assured action into the incident.
Many Kashmiris, who once sought employment and educational opportunities in other parts of the country, are now reconsidering their options.
The rise in fear and anger is also fueled by the perceived inaction of local authorities in several states.
Political parties, including the opposition, have called on the central government to intervene and take proactive steps to safeguard Kashmiris. The BJP, which holds power at the national level, along with the PDP and Congress, have all expressed their disappointment with the lack of adequate security measures.
While condemning the recent incidents, senior BJP leader Ashok Koul also expressed his concerns about the safety of Kashmiris. He said that no individual or community should ever feel unsafe based on their ethnicity or origin, and that it is the responsibility of the authorities to ensure their protection, wherever they reside.
The series of attacks on Kashmiris has also prompted calls for stronger unity among different political factions in Jammu and Kashmir, pushing for comprehensive measures to counter the growing discontent among the people.
As the situation continues to unfold, the Kashmiri community remains hopeful that the political will and public outrage will result in concrete action to ensure their safety and dignity in every part of the country. “For now, the uncertain future of Kashmiris living outside their home state is clouded by a prevailing sense of fear and insecurity. We are hopeful that measures are taken so all Kashmiris feels safe and secure in all parts of the country,” said Shahid Ahmad, who studies in New Delhi.