Opinion | Why Migrant Lives Matter for Kashmiris?

From construction sites to agricultural fields, from street vending to household services, migrant workers form the backbone of many sectors that sustain the local economy.

Kashmir has long been synonymous with hospitality and the ethos of Kashmiriyat. This ethos embodies the values of coexistence, inclusivity, and care for all individuals, irrespective of their origins. However, recent incidents targeting innocent migrant workers in the Valley threaten this very fabric and are an affront to the our collective identity. These killings are not just a human tragedy but also a blow to the valley’s developmental aspirations. The migrant workforce plays a pivotal role in the day-to-day life and development of Kashmir. From construction sites to agricultural fields, from street vending to household services, migrant workers form the backbone of many sectors that sustain the local economy. These workers, often hailing from economically weaker sections of states like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and West Bengal, come to Kashmir in search of livelihood opportunities.
They endure long hours of labour, challenging weather conditions, and separation from their families to contribute significantly to the Valley’s progress. It is these hands that build roads, homes, schools, and hospitals. It is these feet that walk miles selling fruits, vegetables, and trinkets to ensure residents have access to essentials. Their role in enabling Kashmir’s economy, while humble and often unnoticed, is indispensable. Migrant workers live on the margins, often in overcrowded rented accommodations or makeshift shelters. Their earnings are meager, barely enough to sustain their families back home. Yet, they contribute wholeheartedly to the Valley’s growth, serving as a bridge between Kashmir and the rest of India. For street vendors, who form a significant portion of the migrant workforce, life is particularly precarious. These men and women navigate the streets daily, carrying baskets of fresh vegetables, snacks, clothes, and household items. They are a familiar sight in bustling markets and quiet neighbourhoods, bringing goods to the doorsteps of locals. Their efforts make life convenient for residents while fostering micro-level economic activity. Despite their immense contribution, they often face challenges like harassment, exploitation, and now, the ultimate horror—targeted violence.
The targeted killings of migrant workers in Kashmir are acts of cowardice, cruelty, and senselessness. These individuals are soft targets who neither wield influence nor pose any threat to the perpetrators. By targeting poor, defenceless workers, these acts of violence seek to create fear and division. Such incidents not only tarnish the Valley’s image but also disrupt the fragile economic ecosystem. The fear instilled in migrant workers forces many to leave, creating labour shortages and stalling developmental projects. The absence of these workers is keenly felt across sectors, from small-scale vendors to large-scale construction.Moreover, these heinous acts stain the collective conscience of the people of Kashmir, who have historically been known for their warmth and hospitality.
Migrants Build Kashmir
Every brick laid by a mason, every road constructed, and every apple box packed for export has the fingerprints of migrant labourers. They form the silent workforce behind Kashmir’s economic development, particularly in sectors like construction and infrastructure. Migrant labourers form the majority workforce at construction sites, contributing to the development of critical infrastructure such as roads, schools, and bridges. During the apple-picking season, migrants assist local farmers with harvesting, packing, and transporting the produce, ensuring Kashmir’s apples reach markets across the country and abroad. Vendors, tailors, domestic workers, and other service providers enhance the quality of life for locals by offering goods and services at affordable rates. Their dedication fuels the growth of a Valley striving to rise above conflict and rebuild its economy. As a society, Kashmiris must rise to the occasion to protect these individuals. These workers have chosen to live among us, trusting in the values of Kashmiriyat and the spirit of brotherhood. Their presence is a testament to Kashmir’s potential as a place of opportunity and harmony. Silence in the face of these atrocities is complicity. Community leaders, civil society organizations, and ordinary citizens must unequivocally condemn such acts of violence. It is imperative to foster an environment where every worker, whether local or migrant, feels safe and valued. The government has a crucial role to play in ensuring the safety and security of migrant workers.
The killing of innocent migrant workers is a stark reminder of the fragility of peace in Kashmir. But it is also an opportunity for the people of the Valley to reaffirm their commitment to the ideals of harmony and coexistence. These workers are not strangers—they are partners in the journey towards a better Kashmir. We must not let divisive forces define who we are. Instead, let us stand together to protect the vulnerable and rebuild the trust that has been shaken. Let us remember that the essence of Kashmiriyat lies in embracing and caring for all who contribute to the Valley’s growth and prosperity. Ending this cycle of violence requires more than just condemnation. It demands collective action, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to upholding the dignity of every human life. Only then can Kashmir truly be a paradise on earth for everyone who calls it home, whether native or migrant.
Author is a social activist and writer passionate about social justice advocacy , focusing on Kashmir’s development, peace, and harmony. He can reached at advocatetahir2024@gmail.com