Dehradun: Shopkeeper held after assault on Kashmiri shawl seller
Dehradun: Shopkeeper held after assault on Kashmiri shawl seller
A Dehradun shopkeeper is arrested after allegedly assaulting a 17-year-old Kashmiri shawl seller, leaving him with a fractured arm; the incident raises concerns over hate-based violence.
Dehradun, January 29, 2026 — In a case that has sparked concerns over hate and violence against minority traders, a 50-year-old shopkeeper was arrested by Dehradun police after allegedly assaulting a 17-year-old Kashmiri shawl seller. The victim, Mohd Tavish, sustained a fractured arm, while his cousin, Mohd Danish, escaped with minor injuries, police said.
According to the FIR filed by Tavish's brother, the two youths approached the shop to buy snacks. They spoke in Kashmiri, and the shopkeeper initially did not respond. He eventually retrieved chips from inside the shop, but as the youths started to leave with their shawls, an argument arose over the language used. The shopkeeper allegedly began using abusive language and then grabbed a bat, beating Tavish and, allegedly, hitting Danish as well. The youths have alleged communal and religious slurs were used, according to the complaint.
Senior Superintendent of Police Ajay Singh said an FIR has been registered for intentional insults designed to provoke a breach of peace or incite a crime and voluntarily causing hurt. Medical examination was conducted, and Tavish's and Danish's statements were recorded. The police said they are investigating all aspects of the case.
Uttarakhand has seen several attacks on Kashmiri hawkers in recent years. Similar incidents were reported in 2024 and 2025, underscoring ongoing concerns about protection for migrant traders and the need for timely action by authorities.
Police have urged calm as the investigation proceeds and have stressed that all angles will be examined to ensure justice for the victims.
