Due to crime, terrorism, and sexual harassment across various Indian states, the United States issued a Level 2 travel advisory on June 16; women are advised to avoid solo travel.
New Dhaka Times: Desk Report
In response to the increasing incidents of crime, terrorism, and sexual harassment across several Indian states, the United States has issued a strict travel advisory.
The American administration has issued a “Level 2 Travel Advisory” for India. Under this level, U.S. citizens are advised to exercise increased caution.
This advisory was published by the United States on June 16. It states that due to crime and terrorism, several parts of India have been identified as high-risk areas.
The advisory mentioned that incidents of sexual assault have increased in various tourist areas of India. Specifically, it recommends that women avoid traveling alone.
In addition, due to the risk of terrorism and violent activities, travel to border areas and Maoist-affected regions has been discouraged.
Jammu and Kashmir, Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam have been identified as terrorism-prone areas.
Eastern Maharashtra, northern Telangana, and the western part of West Bengal have been labeled as Maoist-affected.
For travel outside the capital in states like Bihar, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Meghalaya, Odisha, and West Bengal, U.S. citizens have been advised to seek prior approval.
Travel to Manipur has been completely prohibited.
This directive has sparked political controversy.
Trinamool Congress MP Sagarika Ghosh mocked, saying, “Modi and his supporters have received a strong blow. The United States itself says India is endangered by rape and terrorism.”
The Kerala Congress also commented towards Modi, stating, “Another feather added to Modi’s crown.”
Experts believe that this travel advisory is not only a precautionary measure for safety but also a significant diplomatic blow to the Modi government’s image.
Despite recent efforts to strengthen ties with the Trump administration, such an advisory has become an embarrassing issue for the Indian government.
This U.S. advisory has raised serious questions in the international community regarding India’s security situation and the safety of women.
Although the Indian government has yet to make any official response on the matter, the directive has already stirred intense political reactions within the country.
📰 Headlines from Other Newspapers:
Times of India: ‘Rape, violence, terrorism’: US suddenly updates travel advisory for India, asks women not to travel alone
Economic Times: US issues Level 2 travel advisory for India: What it means & what travellers should know
Times of India (Odisha edition): Odisha slams US advisory cautioning travel to state over Maoist threat
Times of India (Raipur edition): T S Singh Deo questions Amit Shah over US travel advisory on women’s safety in Chhattisgarh
Times of India (Ranchi edition): Political parties, traders slam US travel advisory