Dress code for J&K tourists demanded

Just when tourism is peaking in Kashmir, the Jamiat-e-Islami has asked the state tourism department to announce a “dress code” for those visiting the Valley, particularly from foreign countries. Jamiat spokesman Zahid Ali said the tourism department must instruct tourists not to wear clothes that are contrary to the local ethos and culture. 
“Some tourists, mostly foreigners, are seen in mini-skirts and other objectionable dresses that are against our 
ethos and culture, and unacceptable to civil society,” the spokesman said, adding, “Kashmiris cannot, for the sake of their economy, give up their divine values at any cost.” 
Around four lakh tourists have visited Kashmir so far and the government expects more than 13 lakh tourists this year—the mainstay of its economy. 
The tourism department ignored the Jamiat statement. “We can’t instruct tourists to visit the Valley in a particular kind of dress. This won’t be taken well internationally,” said an official. 
However, disagreeing with the official line, prominent separatist Syed Ali Shah Geelani joined the Jamiat and asked the director of tourism to discourage foreign tourists from visiting the Valley, particularly from Israel.