Srinagar, Aug. 1 -- The Kashmir Trade Alliance (KTA) has urged the Jammu and Kashmir government to urgently intervene and resolve the ongoing crisis faced by mutton dealers, who allege being subjected to extortion and undue harassment during the transit of livestock truckloads through Punjab.

The situation has escalated following a strike by mutton dealers in protest against what they describe as repeated instances of extortion and arbitrary charges imposed en route. As a result, the supply of mutton to the Valley has nearly dried up at a time when the region is witnessing the peak of its marriage season - leading to significant inconvenience for consumers, businesses, and families alike.

KTA President, Aijaz Shahdhar expressed concern ...