Kashmiri Street Vendor Missing in Delhi Feb 16, Family in Distress

A Kashmiri street vendor’s sudden disappearance in Delhi has left his family in agony, raising fears over his safety.

A 36-year-old street vendor from Sopore, located in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), has gone missing in Delhi, leaving his family deeply worried. Shabir Ahmad Shah, son of the late Ghulam Nabi Shah and a resident of Neharpora, Sopore, had traveled to Delhi for business but has been untraceable since February 16.

Shabir departed for Delhi on January 31, 2025, intending to purchase shoes and other items for his small-scale street business. His family last heard from him on the morning of February 16, which has since become a date of distress for them.

His wife, Mumtaza, recounted that Shabir called her around 11:30 AM on February 16 while she was in the hospital due to an illness. During their conversation, he assured her of his return soon and even offered to send financial assistance if needed. Shortly after, the call disconnected, and no further contact has been made.

Interestingly, the goods Shabir had bought in Delhi reached Sopore on February 18 and 20. However, he himself has not returned, and there has been no trace of him since his last call. His family’s attempts to gather information about his whereabouts have yielded no results, increasing their concerns.

His disappearance has sparked fears that he might have been abducted by Hindutva extremists in India. The family remains in turmoil, desperate for any news that could help locate him.

Shabir’s family has made urgent pleas to authorities, requesting assistance in finding him and ensuring his safe return. They continue to seek justice and hope that he will be reunited with them soon.