Srinagar: The United States Department of State has issued an updated travel advisory for India, advising its nationals against traveling to specific high-risk regions, including Manipur, Jammu and Kashmir, the India-Pakistan border, and certain central and eastern areas, citing ongoing “violence and terrorism."
“Do not travel to Jammu and Kashmir (except the eastern Ladakh region and its capital, Leh) due to terrorism and civil unrest; within 10 km of the India-Pakistan border due to the potential for armed conflict; portions of Central and East India due to terrorism and Manipur due to violence and crime,” the State Department warned.
It cautioned that violence is sporadic in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly along the Line of Control (LOC) and in tourist spots like Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam.
“Exercise increased caution in India due to crime and terrorism. Some areas have increased risk,” the State Department advised.
It also recommended reconsidering travel to the northeastern states due to ongoing violence and terrorism. Concerns about violent crime, including sexual assault, are noted in the advisory.
“Indian authorities report that rape is one of the fastest growing crimes in India. Violent crime, such as sexual assault, has happened at tourist sites and other locations. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning,” it stated.
The advisory also mentioned limited emergency services in rural areas from eastern Maharashtra to northern Telangana and through western West Bengal. The advisory details specific warnings for different regions.
“Do not travel to Manipur due to the threat of violence and crime. Ongoing ethnic-based civil conflict has resulted in extensive violence and community displacement. Attacks against Indian government targets occur on a regular basis,” it said.
Regarding the India-Pakistan border, it said the only official border crossing for non-citizens is between Attari, India, and Wagah, Pakistan. Check the current status before you travel, and remember that a Pakistani visa is required for entry into Pakistan.
Meanwhile, Omar Abdullah, reacting to the US advisory, said: “So much for ‘naya J&K’. For all the talk of normalcy, peace, tourism, and the G-20 tamasha in Srinagar, J&K continues to be the target of US State Department travel advisories. The Modi government has been able to change nothing.”