National Conference Condemns Suvendu Adhikari for Urging Tourists to Avoid Kashmir | Kashmir Tourism Politics 2025
By: Javid Amin | Srinagar | 12 July 2025
Kashmir Caught in the Crossfire of Politics Again
In yet another political flashpoint, the serene valley of Kashmir has been dragged into a fresh controversy. This time, it’s over a provocative statement made by BJP leader and West Bengal Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari, who asked tourists to avoid visiting Jammu and Kashmir. His remark has sparked sharp backlash from the National Conference (NC) and has reignited concerns about the politicization of tourism in conflict-prone regions.
While Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah was on a goodwill and tourism promotion visit to West Bengal, Suvendu Adhikari’s statement appeared to pour cold water on those efforts. His suggestion that people should choose other destinations like Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, or Odisha instead of Kashmir has been deemed by many as both divisive and damaging to national unity.
This article delves deep into the unfolding controversy, political reactions, the significance of tourism for Kashmir, and the larger implications of Suvendu Adhikari’s statement on India’s social fabric.
Suvendu Adhikari’s Statement: What Was Said?
During a public interaction, Suvendu Adhikari, who is also a sitting Member of Parliament from the BJP and Leader of Opposition in West Bengal, urged people to “avoid Kashmir” as a holiday destination. According to him, other Indian states like Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Odisha offered safer and equally beautiful alternatives.
The comment came days after the Pahalgam terror attack and at a time when the valley is trying to revive its tourism industry, which took a significant hit due to security concerns.
“There are many other places in India worth visiting. Why take the risk of going to Kashmir?” — Suvendu Adhikari, BJP MP
This statement triggered a wave of condemnation, with the most scathing response coming from the National Conference (NC) and other Valley-based stakeholders.
NC Hits Back: “An Insult to the Idea of India”
Tanvir Sadiq’s Strong Words
Responding swiftly and forcefully, NC Chief Spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq slammed Adhikari’s remarks as “shameful, divisive, and dangerous”.
In a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Sadiq wrote:
“It is deeply shameful that at a time when the entire country is standing with Jammu and Kashmir, the Leader of the Opposition in West Bengal @SuvenduWB is spewing such hate-filled, divisive, and communal rhetoric.”
Sadiq further reminded the public that Kashmiris have always stood by India, not for incentives or compulsion, but because it was the right thing to do.
“When we are right, the nation must stand with us… Suvendu Adhikari’s statement insults not only the people of Kashmir but the very idea of India, where unity in diversity is our strength.”
“This Is About the Soul of India”
He concluded with a powerful message:
“This isn’t just about Kashmir; this is about the soul of India. Such vile thinking must be condemned by one and all.”
The Bigger Picture: Tourism as a Unifier in Kashmir
Kashmir’s tourism is not just an economic activity—it is a symbol of normalcy, peace, and integration. Every visitor to the Valley is not merely a tourist but an ambassador of national unity.
Economic Lifeline
Tourism is one of the most vital sectors in Kashmir:
- Supports over 70,000 families directly
- Powers local industries like handicrafts, transport, and hospitality
- Generates employment in rural and urban Kashmir alike
Tourism as Confidence Building
Tourism serves as a confidence-building measure. When tourists visit Kashmir:
- It builds trust between communities
- Reduces alienation
- Counters radical narratives by showing solidarity
Adhikari’s statement, therefore, is not just a political jab—it weakens efforts made by people across ideological lines to present Kashmir as safe, welcoming, and part of mainstream India.
Omar Abdullah’s West Bengal Visit: A Context Ignored
Ironically, Suvendu’s remarks came while Omar Abdullah was in West Bengal, meeting Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to promote inter-state tourism and cultural exchange.
During the meeting:
- Omar invited Mamata to visit Kashmir after Durga Puja
- Thanked her for her support after the Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 26 people including several from Bengal
- Discussed a potential MoU between J&K and West Bengal to promote tourism
“We want the people of Bengal to come and experience the warmth and beauty of Kashmir.” — Omar Abdullah, CM of Jammu & Kashmir
Adhikari’s comments, therefore, seem not only poorly timed but also politically motivated, undermining a rare moment of inter-state cooperation.
Weaponizing Security Concerns
A Pattern of Selective Outrage?
Many critics argue that security concerns in Kashmir are being selectively exaggerated for political mileage.
- Himachal and Uttarakhand have also seen natural disasters and tourist casualties
- Several parts of mainland India experience law and order issues, but tourism isn’t discouraged there
This double standard only serves to reinforce stereotypes and alienate communities.
“Terrorism must be condemned, not exploited for votes.” — Political analyst, New Delhi
Impact on Kashmir’s Economy
Tourism Decline Post-Attack
Since the April 22 Pahalgam attack, there has been a:
- 40% drop in hotel bookings
- Mass cancellations by tourists from Maharashtra, Bengal, and Gujarat
Statements like Adhikari’s worsen this trend and create unnecessary panic.
Valley in Recovery Mode
- J&K Government has ramped up tourist police deployment
- Hoteliers and travel agents have started discount campaigns
- Pilgrimage routes and major attractions are under tight security cover
Tourism revival is slow but steady. Any political rhetoric that disrupts this recovery is seen by locals as sabotage.
A National Issue: Not Just Kashmir
Statements like Adhikari’s must be seen through a pan-India lens.
- If political leaders can discourage tourism in Kashmir today, what stops them from doing the same for northeast states tomorrow?
- Can India afford to divide itself into “safe” and “unsafe” regions based on political ideologies?
India is one country. We must be united in joy and in tragedy, in tourism and in trade, in conflict and in celebration.
“Do not punish Kashmir for being a victim of terror. Instead, reward it by visiting and showing solidarity.” — A Kashmiri tour operator
Way Forward: Unity, Not Division
Policy Suggestions
- Responsible Tourism Communication: Political parties should commit to fact-based tourism advisories.
- Tourism Protection Act: Consider a national policy that criminalizes targeted dissuasion of travel to any Indian state based on politics.
- Cross-State MoUs: Encourage more inter-state cultural and tourism pacts.
Appeal to Political Leaders
Tourism is not a battleground. It is a bridge. Every political leader has a duty to protect that bridge, not burn it.
Bottom-Line: Kashmir Is India
The Suvendu Adhikari Kashmir tourism controversy is not just about a single comment. It touches upon the deeper wounds of identity, alienation, and the politics of perception.
But amid all the noise, one thing is clear:
- Kashmir belongs to India
- Kashmiris are Indians
- And every Indian has the right to experience the beauty, hospitality, and soul of Kashmir
“Come to Kashmir not because it’s perfect. Come because it matters.”
