The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) on Tuesday threatened to snap trade ties “with those who are bent upon destroying our nation politically, economically and socially” in case the state government failed to act against those who attacked Kashmiris in Jammu and outside.
Addressing a press conference, senior vice-president KCCI, Nasir Hameed Khan said chamber condemned the decision of their counterparts in Jammu to issue a call for Jammu Bandh on February 15 against the Pulwama attack that later caused arson and violence in the region.
“Jammu Chamber had earlier agreed to support issues of common interest of trade bodies and not create situations vitiating atmosphere but they have failed to live up to the expectations. There is no doubt that the cause of the violence was the result of Jammu Bandh,” said Khan.
Khan urged JCCI to adopt “multidimensional thinking before taking any such decisions in future and to exercise restraint and take effective steps to protect regional harmony in the state.”
He said people must exercise utmost care while uploading content on the social media and not circulate provocative content.
Khan also urged the state administration to play a firm role in maintaining peace and brotherhood.
In a statement, the KCCI urged:
1. That the Jammu Chamber exercise restraint and take effective steps to protect regional harmony;
2. That the Governors Administration issue appropriate orders for reconstitution of the Toll Tax Committee;
3. That the Civil Society of the country take measures to protect and re-assure our people wherever they may be in the Country.
4. That the print and electronic media be more sensitive to the prevailing situation while reporting news relating to our State and people.
5. That people exercise utmost care while uploading content on the social media and not circulate provocative content.
6. In case State machinery fails to bring to justice people who have caused immense harm to our people at Jammu and other States, KCCI has decided to work out other alternatives, in consultation with other stakeholders, which may include snapping of trade ties with those who are bent upon destroying our nation politically, economically and socially. In that eventuality KCCI should not be held responsible.