The Aftermath of Guru's Hanging: Kashmir Faces 2200 Cr Loss

Bangalore: The curfew and shutdown in Kashmir since the hanging of Afzal Guru on February 9 has cost the valley a lot. The Kashmir Valley has incurred a loss of 2200 crore ever since the hanging of parliament attacker Afzal Guru, reported Khurram Rasool for Kashmir Reader.

Shakeel Qalander, former president of Federation Chamber of Commerce and Industry Kashmir (FCCIK) was quoted saying by Kashmir Reader, “We lose around Rs 100 crore on every single shutdown. Since February 9 to March 9, we have hardly had 7-8 working days. That means we have suffered a loss of 2200 crore since Afzal Guru’s hanging.”

Since Afzal’s hanging, curfew, protests and shutdowns have marred the Valley. As a result tourism industry has also taken a hit.

Rouf Tramboo, President Travel Agents Association of Kashmir said “50-60 percent of bookings have already been cancelled for the spring season.”

Mohammad Yasin Khan, chairman of Kashmir Economic Alliance (KEA) said “Every trading partner is incurring losses be it transport, tourism, trade or horticulture. Business community of Kashmir is incurring financial losses of Rs 80 to 85 crore per day due to curfew and hartals,” reported by DNA.

While the people in the valley blame the government, KEA plans to ask for the compensation from the Centre for the losses suffered. Khan said “I blame the government of India for everything because they do not want peace in Kashmir. We will seek compensation from the government of India. We are working on that.”