As eviction fears grip Kashmir business community, top traders’ body says ‘this should not happen’

Business leaders in Srinagar, Kashmir, are expressing concern over eviction notices issued by the government for failing to renew leases or pay rent on commercial establishments. The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industries (KCCI) has called for an amicable solution to the issue, warning that eviction could exacerbate the already high unemployment rate.

The government has sent eviction notices to commercial establishments set up on Nazool land, government property leased out for a specific purpose without transferring ownership. One such notice has been issued to the Mohidin Trust building at Srinagar's Polo View, which houses 40-42 entities, providing employment for hundreds of people.

KCCI President Javed Ahmad Tenga emphasized the potential consequences for numerous families and urged the government to explore alternatives, such as extending lease periods or increasing rent rates within legal boundaries. Over 7,000 acres of land in Jammu and Kashmir, primarily in Srinagar's commercial areas like Lal Chowk, Residency Road, and Rajbagh, is built on Nazool land.

The eviction order given to the Mohidin Trust stated that the property must be vacated by September 21, and failure to comply would result in legal eviction.