Ubeer Naqushbandi
SRINAGAR
At a time when some “fanatics” are busy spreading venom on social networking sites against Kashmiri people, Kashmiris are demonstrating their traditional hospitality traits amid deadly state of affairs in valley.
This was evident at Nigeen Club in Srinagar, when large group of stranded passengers mainly—yatris—were served food by one Kashmiri family.
The family of Altaf Ahmed Butt hosting wedding reception in the club’s premises not only proved much needed food to the stranded yatris, but also made sure that the sentiments of yatris aren’t hurt.
“Since this family was serving wazwan (Kashmiri cuisine) to its guests and most dishes were meat-based using lamb or chicken we being vegetarian could not take them,” said a yatri. He added they were served rice, pulao, yoghurt and beverages. “We gratefully accepted his hospitality.”
Noted journalist Yusuf Jameel who personally witnessed the event said during his tour of the city, he witnessed many tourist buses parked outside the Nigeen Club which generated curiosity in him and later, came to see this endeavour of Kashmiri people.
Notably, a “fanatic netizen” or “hate-monger” namely Ashok Koul on its Facebook page had yesterday written: “According to sources two Pandits killed in Kashmir at some village… Many Hindu Houses Burnt… Internet Services Suspended.”
Taking cognizance of Koul’s blatant lies, police lodged FIR number 44/ 2016, under 505 b (2) IPC against him at Kothibagh police station.
Although Koul later apologised, but police authorities said that the damage had already been done, as internet has wide reach.
Meanwhile, police are also mulling to file FIR against Vinod Pandit, who according to police is also involved in spreading “venom” on social media, by tweeting: “I’m inside Kakran temple. We are surrounded by the mob that are relentlessly attacking temple with stone. No Army and security cover is visible.”
The endeavour by a Kashmiri family has apparently served as an eye opener for the “fanatics” spreading venom against Kashmiris in virtual platform.
