Says ‘Terrorists Have No Relation to Islam; They’ve Killed Humanity’
Suhail Khan
Srinagar, April 26 ; Days after businesses in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir began recovering from the Pahalgam massacre, people affiliated with the tourism industry stated that their focus is not on business but on condemning the attack and standing in solidarity with their fellow countrymen who lost their lives in the terrorist attack.
Speaking exclusively with Kashmir Despatch, Gulmarg Hoteliers President Akib Chaya said, “Who is thinking about business in Kashmir right now? We are in mourning, condemning this act, and standing in solidarity with our fellow countrymen—especially our Kashmiri hero who fought the terrorists and showed the world that we Kashmiris are not violent people.”
Akib expressed his anger, saying, “It’s not us who did this—it’s those animals, who aren’t even true Muslims. I am not apologetic; I am furious, just like every other person in the country. We are grieving, and this is the time for the nation to reflect on these terrorists—these beasts—who have no relation to Islam. Our religion does not teach this. They didn’t just kill individuals; they killed humanity itself.”
He emphasized that these terrorists aimed to incite communal violence, and the country must unite against them. “They must not be allowed to go free. Their goal was to destroy Kashmir, which had been progressing toward development, peace, and prosperity in recent years.”
Akib added that the entire Kashmiri community—shopkeepers, business owners, and ordinary citizens—took to the streets to condemn the attack and raise their voices against terrorism. “We lost a hero who fought these terrorists while protecting our guests. Now, the country must think about Kashmir.”
He stressed the need for national unity, warning that prolonged disruptions would severely impact Kashmir’s economy, as 80% of the population depends on tourism. “Many newcomers in the tourism industry, who started businesses with loans, will face devastating setbacks if this continues. This massacre didn’t just claim 28 lives—it affects over a crore of people linked to tourism in Jammu and Kashmir.”
Akib asserted that Kashmiris share the same anger as the rest of the nation. “The perpetrators of this barbaric act are terrorists, and their only aim is to spread fear. Kashmiris should not be blamed—we are victims, just like those targeted by these animals.”
He paid tribute to Syed Adil, who sacrificed his life to prove Kashmiris’ love for their fellow countrymen. “Our people opened their homes, mosques, and hearts—from shikara operators to taxi and auto drivers, everyone stood strong for the tourists in this moment of grief. What more can Kashmir do to prove its love for the nation?”
Akib added, “Right now, business is the last thing on our minds—it’s at a complete standstill. We’ve had 100% cancellations for the upcoming week, but we stand united with our fellow countrymen in condemning this attack and honoring the victims of the Pahalgam tragedy.”
Meanwhile, local hoteliers of Kashmir Valley on Saturday came together to express their solidarity with the tourism sector in Kashmir, with condemnation of the Pahalgam attack, and said “Kashmir is the safest place and people should come here without any fear as it is the safest place.”
Leading hoteliers and tourism stakeholders also urged national media to avoid spreading misleading narratives about the recent Pahalgam attack.
At a press conference in Srinagar, they emphasized that no tourists have ever been harmed in Kashmir and expressed solidarity with the victims and their families.
They condemned the incident, clarified that locals are not responsible, and highlighted their efforts to support remaining tourists with free food and accommodation.
They called on visitors to continue exploring Kashmir and requested authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the attack.
Speaking at the event, Chaya stressed the challenges the tourism industry is facing due to the strike. “There have been so far 80 percent cancellations in bookings, but this is natural and justified following such an incident. However, we remain optimistic and continue to reassure tourists about the safety and warmth of our hospitality,” Chaya said.
Meanwhile, Speaking to Kashmir Despatch, a group of hoteliers in Srinagar stated that, given the current situation, they do not believe they can survive in the coming times. However, they are hopeful for the swift return of tourists to restore the previous business and rush.
They also appealed to the LG and CM to make efforts to bring back their guests so that the tourism industry, which has struggled for years, does not suffer again.
Suhail Khan is a filmmaker, content writer, and freelance journalist.
