Separatists' overture to tourists amid unrest in Kashmir

With Jammu and Kashmir witnessing continued unrest, which has badly hit its economy, separatist amalgam Hurriyat Conference today reached out to tourists and pilgrims, asking them to visit the Valley and enjoy the hospitality, while promising them safety.
A joint statement issued by both the factions of the Hurriayat said for centuries Kashmiris have been providing "exemplary hospitality" and safety to tourists and pilgrims.
"We have been taught hospitality, humanity and safeguarding the rights of guests," the statement said.
"Tourists and pilgrims who intend to visit Kashmir are most welcome," the statement issued by hardline separatist leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani, leader of the moderate moderate Hurriyat faction Mirwaiz Muhammad Umer Farooq and JKLF chief Yasin Malik said.

Extending wholehearted welcome to tourists and pilgrims, they said people of Kashmir have been taught "to be kind with our guests and serve them and safeguard their rights at every cost".
"This is also embedded in our Kashmiri culture and ethos and that is why our hospitality has been exemplary throughout the history," they said.

Referring to the unrest of 2008, the statement said when there was an economic blockade and even baby food was scarce, people in the valley replied to that "tyranny with our exemplary hospitality".
"We not only safeguarded them, provided them shelter but also served them and kept the doors of our homes and localities open for them," they said and added that the same practice was followed during 2014 devastating floods.

The Kashmir Valley is in continued turmoil since the July 8 killing of militant commander Burhan Wani in an encounter with security forces.