Srinagar, Nov 20: The Kashmir Wholesale Mutton Dealers Association on Thursday sounded alarm again over the high costs and harassment imposed on livestock trucks at Punjab checkpoints, warning of a “mutton price hike” in the Valley if the issue is not resolved by November 27.

Mehraj-ud-Din Ganai, the Association’s General Secretary, speaking with news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said dealers face alleged excess charges of over Rs 10,000 per truck, a continuation of previously reported “extortion” practices.

He added that truckers have been forced to pay between Rs 10,000 and Rs 15,000 at the Shambhu and Madhopur checkpoints.

Earlier this year, the Association even suspended the import of live animals from outside states in protest, citing repeated harassment and bribes.

As rep

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