US Issues Updated Travel Advisory for India: Cites Rising Crime, Rape, and Extremism Risks

June 22, 2025 | New Delhi/Washington D.C.

The United States has issued a revised travel advisory for India, categorizing it under Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution, citing a surge in violent crime, especially rape, threats of terrorism, and left-wing extremism in some regions. The advisory has drawn national attention and criticism from Indian officials.

🔴 Key Highlights of the Travel Advisory

• Sexual violence, particularly rape, is listed as one of the fastest-growing crimes in India.

• The U.S. Department of State has strongly discouraged solo travel for women in India.

• Terrorist groups may target tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets, and government buildings.

• Left-wing extremism (Maoist insurgency) remains a threat in parts of Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Bihar, Maharashtra, Telangana, and West Bengal.

• Specific regions like Jammu & Kashmir, Manipur, and rural central India are under heightened alert.

• U.S. citizens are discouraged from traveling via the India-Nepal land border due to immigration risks.

• Possession of satellite phones and unauthorized GPS equipment in India can lead to fines up to $200,000 or imprisonment.

📍 Areas Marked as High-Risk

• Jammu & Kashmir (excluding eastern Ladakh and its capital, Leh)

• North-Eastern States: Especially Manipur

• Central and Eastern India affected by Naxalism:

  • Chhattisgarh

  • Jharkhand

  • Odisha (especially in the southwest border districts)

  • Bihar

  • Eastern Maharashtra

  • Northern Telangana

  • Western West Bengal

🗣️ Indian Leaders Respond

🔹 T.S. Singh Deo, former Dy. CM of Chhattisgarh:

“It’s a matter of deep concern and national embarrassment. If women are being advised against traveling alone, it questions our core safety policies.”

🔹 Krushna Chandra Patra, Odisha Minister:

“This advisory paints a one-sided picture. Odisha is safe for tourists, and our Maoist-affected areas are under strict watch.”

🧳 What Travelers Should Do

✅ Recommended Precautions:

• Women should avoid traveling alone, especially in isolated or rural areas.

• Avoid political gatherings, demonstrations, and areas flagged for terrorism or insurgency.

• Stay alert in public places including malls, airports, and hotels.

• Do not bring satellite phones, GPS devices, or other restricted tech into India.

• Check local advisories and news before traveling to any rural or border region.

• Always register with the U.S. embassy if you’re traveling for a longer duration.

📌 Why It Matters

This move reflects global concerns about internal security in India, especially regarding women’s safety and extremist violence. Though the advisory does not prohibit travel, it signals the need for increased awareness and pre-trip planning.

Tourism in India, especially from North America and Europe, may face renewed scrutiny following this update.

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• Read: U.S. Department of State Official Travel Advisory