Need to change view about Valley: Chaya

Tribune News Service
Jammu, February 28

As Kashmir has opened its doors for the stranded tourists offering them free accommodation and support, prominent hotelier Mushtaq Ahmed Chaya has called upon people to change their perception about the Valley.

J&K Hoteliers’ Club chairman Chaya said after the Pulwama terror attack, Kashmiris faced harassment in various parts of the country and it was presumed that “everyone from the Valley is a supporter of violence and it has made people scared”.

“For centuries, we (Kashmiris) are known for our hospitality. Kashmiris have always received guests with open arms and will continue to do so despite being inflicted by the conflict,” he said.

Chaya said that Kashmir is caught up in a conflict between India and Pakistan, but both countries should give peace a chance. “Both nations should work for peace. For satisfaction of egos, the leadership should not pursue the path of war. Let us work for development as we are developing countries. The message should go down to the political class,” he said.

“The tourism industry was hit following the February 14 Pulwama attack. We are hopeful the situation will improve and the sector will pick up in summer,” he said.