Khuehami said that Younis Rather, a prominent businessman from Padshahi Bagh, Srinagar, Kashmir, was brutally attacked by a group of local goons in Colaba, Mumbai. It is distressing to learn that Rather was viciously assaulted outside his shop, leaving him severely injured and traumatized. The attackers, allegedly motivated by prejudice, subjected Rather to physical violence and issued threats aimed at coercing him to abandon his legitimate business activities in Mumbai.
He further stated that the assailants, reportedly in collusion with some neighbouring business establishments, not only inflicted physical harm on Rather but also hurled derogatory slurs and insults at him based on his regional identity. Such targeted acts of violence and intimidation against Kashmiri individuals are not only abhorrent but also indicative of a dangerous trend that threatens the social fabric of our nation.
Khuehami emphasized that swift and decisive action must be taken to bring the perpetrators of this heinous crime to justice. Immediate measures must be initiated to provide adequate protection to Kashmiri residents and safeguard their fundamental rights within the state of Maharashtra. Despite Younis approaching the Mumbai police to register an FIR regarding this incident, neither has the FIR been registered nor any action taken against the accused, he said.
Khuehami urged Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde to ensure that a thorough investigation is conducted into the matter, leading to the identification and apprehension of all individuals involved in the assault on Younis Rather. He emphasized that their intervention in this matter is crucial to restoring faith in the justice system and sending a strong message against bigotry and violence targeting individuals based on their regional or ethnic background.
He further added that incidents such as these not only tarnish the reputation of Mumbai but also cast a shadow over the entire state of Maharashtra. There have been no reports of harassment or mistreatment of Kashmiri students, businessmen, or labourers in Maharashtra thus far. Kashmiris have found Maharashtra to be a safe and welcoming state, where they have been treated with dignity and respect. They are grateful for the inclusive environment provided by the state of Maharashtra, which has fostered a sense of safety and belonging among Kashmiris.
However, Khuehami highlighted that such isolated incidents can disrupt the brotherhood and bond between Marathis and Kashmiris. He emphasized the need to work together to ensure that Maharashtra remains a beacon of unity and tolerance, where individuals from all backgrounds can coexist harmoniously. He further added that the Chief Minister’s prompt action in addressing this grave issue will not only serve the cause of justice but also uphold the dignity and integrity of our pluralistic society.
