Is the Adverse US Travel Advisory an Embarrassment for India?
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Synopsis
The Congress party has raised alarms about India's diminishing global stature following a US travel advisory warning women against visiting India. This advisory underscores critical issues in India's foreign policy and its implications for international relations and tourism.
Key Takeaways
- US travel advisory warns women against traveling alone to India.
- Concerns raised about India's declining global image.
- Implications for tourism and employment in the sector.
- Violent crime and terrorism highlighted as serious issues.
- Contrast between India and Pakistan's travel advisories noted.
New Delhi, June 24 (NationPress) The Congress party has sharply criticized the government, citing a decline in India's global reputation as evidenced by the recent travel advisory from the US administration. This advisory particularly cautions female travelers against visiting India.
During a press briefing at the All India Congress Committee (AICC) headquarters, Congress National Spokesperson Supriya Shrinate asserted that despite Prime Minister Narendra Modi's extensive international engagements over the past 11 years, the country’s foreign policy has proven ineffective, leading to a worsening image of India.
Shrinate pointed out the flaws in New Delhi’s diplomatic approach, stating, "We are now the fourth-largest economy, yet the US continuously finds ways to humiliate us on the global stage."
She also highlighted the irony of the favorable reception given to Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir at the White House, contrasting it with the US’s unfavorable advisory on India.
According to the US government's Level-2 advisory on India, women are advised against traveling alone, and US officials must seek permission before visiting India.
Shrinate voiced concerns over the detrimental impact of this travel advisory on India's tourism sector and employment, sharing alarming excerpts from the advisory: “Exercise increased caution in India due to crime and terrorism. Some areas present a heightened risk.”
The advisory specifies that violent crime and terrorism are prevalent in India, with rape being a rapidly increasing crime. It warns that violent crimes, including sexual assaults, can occur at tourist sites and that terrorists may strike unexpectedly, targeting popular locations, transport hubs, marketplaces, and government facilities.
Shrinate expressed disbelief that while India's advisory has become more severe, Pakistan's remains unchanged. She labeled the US advisory as a source of embarrassment for India and demanded clarity on the benefits derived from diplomatic events like ‘Howdy Modi’, ‘Namaste Trump’, and ‘Ab ki bar Trump Sarkar’?
“You claim that America is our friend, yet it issues a negative travel advisory against us while hosting our adversary for lunch,” Shrinate concluded.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize that while criticisms from the Congress party highlight valid concerns regarding India's global standing, the broader context of international relations and domestic policies must also be considered. It is imperative for the nation to engage in constructive dialogue to enhance its image and ensure the safety of all citizens and visitors.
NationPress
24/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the US travel advisory say about India?
The US travel advisory urges increased caution in India due to crime and terrorism, particularly advising women against traveling alone.
How has the Congress party reacted to the advisory?
The Congress party has criticized the government, asserting that the advisory reflects a failure in India's foreign policy and impacts its global reputation.
What are the implications of the advisory for Indian tourism?
The advisory could deter international tourists, negatively impacting India's tourism sector and the jobs associated with it.
What specific crimes are highlighted in the advisory?
The advisory notes that violent crime, including rape and sexual assault, is a serious issue in India, especially at tourist sites.
What is the difference between India and Pakistan's travel advisories?
While India's advisory has become more severe, Pakistan's travel advisory has not been revised, raising questions about the US's diplomatic stance.
