SRINAGAR, AUGUST 12: Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) president Javid Ahmad Tenga today expressed grave concern over the reports and complaints received from tourists who were deceived into purchasing counterfeit goods under the guise of genuine Kashmir handicrafts.
“This is a matter of grave concern as such malpractice is bound to cut into the very roots of our traditional handicraft business,” Tenga said during a press conference. “The KCCI believes this is a shameful practice, and we have resolved to take necessary steps to protect, preserve, and promote our handicrafts, which are known worldwide for the high-quality materials used and their incomparable craftsmanship.”
Tenga highlighted the rich history of Kashmir handicrafts, which date back to the 14th century, introduced by Hazrat Shahi Hamdan Mir Syed Mir Ali Hamadani (RA) and flourished during the reign of Sultan Zainul Abidin in the 15th century. “Our handicrafts, including textiles like Pashmina shawls with intricate Sozni embroidery, mulberry silk products, carpets, rugs, wood carving, papier-mâché, and copper and silverware, are not just products; they are a legacy of our culture and heritage.”
However, Tenga lamented the recent surge in complaints about machine-made products being sold as authentic Kashmir handicrafts. “The KCCI executive has taken a serious note of such unfair trade practices. This is not only a crime against society but also a serious criminal offense that brings disrepute to the fair name of Kashmir.”
Tenga emphasized that while the KCCI does not oppose the sale of machine-made products, it cannot tolerate these items being falsely marketed as genuine Kashmiri handicrafts. “The sale of fake products has started badly affecting the traders dealing in genuine handcrafted products. It has also shattered the confidence of visitors, who, upon realizing they have been cheated, lose trust in our local artisans.”
To combat this issue, Tenga announced that the KCCI recommends all shopkeepers, dealers, and showroom owners label their merchandise to distinguish between genuine and machine-made products. “Handicraft traders and dealers should invariably attach a proper label to their product, giving its description and composition as a genuine handicraft product or otherwise.”
Tenga issued a stern warning to those traders engaging in these unscrupulous business practices. “The KCCI feels duty-bound to warn those traders who indulge in selling machine-made products in the name of genuine Kashmir handicrafts to desist from such activities. Failing this, such traders shall be identified through special squads of KCCI and exposed in the media—both print and electronic. We will recommend that these dealers be dealt with sternly and blacklisted by the concerned government agencies.”
