At a time when nationalism is a raging issue in the ongoing general election, two hotels in Prayagraj with ‘Pakistanis Not Allowed’ boards on display are creating quite a flutter.

The boards have been put up by Sardar Jogindar Singh in his two prominent hotels -- Hotel Milan on Leader Road and Hotel Milan Palace in Civil Lines.

“I am the son of an ex-armyman. My father late Sujan Singh served with the 2nd Sikh regiment and fought the World War II in Iran and Iraq before Independence. He retired in 1961. The February 14 Pulwama terror attack that claimed lives of over 40 CRPF jawans shook me to the core. So I decided to put up the boards and asked all my staff to not allow any Pakistani nationals in any of my hotels,” said 67-year-old Singh.

Hotel Milan Palace in Prayagraj

The twin hotels are among the best in the town and are popular not only among Indian visitors but also those from abroad, including Pakistanis.

However, on being asked how many Pakistanis have stayed in his hotels earlier or how many had he turned away so far, Singh refused to give any figure.

Singh, who is also the president of Hotel Association of Prayagraj, said: “I don’t have a gun to fight country’s enemies. But this is my way of taking on the perpetrators of these dastardly terror attacks. For me nation comes first and then money.”

“So, I don’t want to do business with Pakistani customers or earn from them. This is my small fight back,” he said while adding that personally he had nothing against Pakistanis.

Though the notices were put up about four months ago but have off late attracted the attention of many during the poll season.

But Singh is quick to dismiss any attribution to his move to politics.

“People are free to draw their conclusions. But for me there is no politics behind the move. I am neither a member of any political party nor is the step any way related to the elections. This is a sentimental and emotional issue for me to display solidarity with our brave jawans,” said Singh.

First Published: May 10, 2019 11:18 IST