- AICC member calls for strict vigilance against profiteering, rumours and anti-social elements exploiting global crisis
JAMMU: Senior Congress leader, AICC Member and Bharat Yatri Shamsher Chand, today urged both the Union Government and the Jammu & Kashmir Government to ensure that the ongoing conflict involving Iran does not lead to hardships for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He stressed that authorities must take proactive measures to safeguard the economic and social interests of the region amid growing global uncertainties.
In a statement issued here, Shamsher Chand expressed concern that international conflicts often trigger indirect consequences such as rising fuel prices, supply disruptions and economic instability, which ultimately affect ordinary citizens. He noted that India is highly dependent on imported energy and global tensions in West Asia could impact energy supplies, shipping routes and supply chains.
The Congress leader said that Jammu and Kashmir, because of its geographical location and economic structure, is particularly vulnerable to external shocks. He pointed out that sectors such as tourism, transport, trade and small businesses in the region are sensitive to fluctuations in fuel prices and transportation costs. Experts have already warned that rising global oil prices due to the conflict could raise transport costs and affect local businesses and household budgets in Kashmir.
Shamsher Chand urged both the Centre and the J&K administration to closely monitor the situation and take preventive steps so that essential commodities remain available at stable prices. He said the governments should ensure that there is no artificial shortage of fuel, LPG, food items or other essential supplies in the region.
He also expressed concern over the possibility of anti-social elements trying to exploit the situation by spreading rumours, hoarding essential goods or engaging in black-marketing. âAuthorities must maintain strict vigilance and ensure that no vested interests are allowed to take advantage of the situation to create panic among the public,â he said.
The AICC leader further emphasized the need for clear communication from the administration to prevent misinformation. He said that timely and transparent information from government agencies would help maintain public confidence and prevent unnecessary panic.
Shamsher Chand also appealed to the people to remain calm and not fall prey to rumours or panic buying. He said that during global crises, collective responsibility and cooperation between citizens and authorities are essential to maintain normalcy. Reaffirming the commitment of the Congress party towards public welfare, he said the party would continue to raise issues affecting the people and ensure that the interests of Jammu and Kashmirâs residents remain protected during challenging global developments.


