Summary
In India, Kashmiri shawl sellers are facing increased attacks and harassment. Many are choosing safety over their business by communicating through a WhatsApp group to avoid dangerous areas.
Key Facts
- Kashmiri shawl sellers in India are experiencing a rise in hate attacks.
- Ayaz Ahmad created a WhatsApp group for shawl sellers to share safe routes and areas.
- Recent attacks include an assault on an 18-year-old Kashmiri seller in Uttarakhand.
- The attack involved a shopkeeper who declared the area as a "Hindu village."
- Such incidents are part of a growing trend of violence and rhetoric against Kashmiris.
- Since 2014, anti-Muslim sentiment in India has increased, with some blaming the BJP.
- One seller, Bilal Ahmad, decided to return to Kashmir due to safety concerns after an attack.
- Returning to Kashmir can be challenging due to limited job opportunities.
