US issues revised travel advisory for India, “Avoid Manipur and Jammu & Kashmir”

Washington: The United States has issued an updated travel advisory for India, urging its citizens to exercise increased caution due to crime and terrorism in the country. The advisory highlights specific regions with heightened risk, advising against travel to certain areas.

The advisory strongly recommends avoiding travel to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, excluding the eastern Ladakh region and its capital, Leh. The area remains a hotspot for terrorism and civil unrest, posing significant safety concerns for travelers. Additionally, the advisory advises against travel within 10 kilometers of the India-Pakistan border due to the potential for armed conflict.

The state of Manipur is also flagged as a no-travel zone due to ongoing violence and crime. Portions of central and eastern India are identified as areas to avoid, including regions in eastern Maharashtra, northern Telangana, and western West Bengal, all of which are affected by terrorism.

The advisory notes that violent crime, particularly rape, is among the fastest-growing crimes in India. Incidents of sexual assault have occurred at tourist sites and other popular locations, prompting heightened caution.

“Terrorists may attack with little or no warning,” the advisory states, warning that potential targets include tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, and government facilities.