Amid the ongoing harsh winter in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, reports of Indian tourists drinking alcohol and dancing openly in public spaces have sparked outrage among the local Muslim-majority population, raising questions about the disregard for religious and cultural sensitivities. According to Kashmir Media Service, international scholar and commentator Ashok Swain shared videos on his X account with caption stating.

“Hindutva-aligned tourists indulged in such activities in snowy weather, disregarding the Islamic traditions of the territory.” Swain criticized the double standards of these tourists, stating, “These are the same people who lynch Muslims in India over baseless accusations of eating beef, yet they show no respect for the cultural and religious values of a Muslim-majority region like Kashmir.” The incident has particularly stung the sentiments of Kashmiris, who, despite the biting cold, have extended hospitality to these tourists, including opening mosque doors to shelter them during severe weather.

Local residents expressed frustration over the blatant disrespect, describing it as a mockery of their generosity and religious values. Community leaders and activists have called for accountability, urging tourists to respect the cultural ethos of Kashmir. They also called upon the authorities to ensure such actions do not undermine the dignity and harmony of the territory.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)