NEW DELHI (The Thursday Times) — The United States has updated its travel advisory for India, citing a surge in violent crime, rape, and the persistent threat of terrorism. Issued by the US Department of State, the Level 2 alert urges American citizens to exercise “increased caution” while travelling in the country. Notably, the advisory specifically warns women against travelling alone, especially in tourist areas, due to rising incidents of sexual assault.
The reissued advisory, dated June 16, follows a routine review but incorporates updated entry and exit requirements. It highlights the growing risks in public spaces such as tourist attractions, markets, shopping malls, transportation hubs, and government facilities—all of which are deemed vulnerable to potential terrorist attacks.
“Exercise increased caution in India due to crime and terrorism. Some areas have increased risk. Violent crime and terrorism occur in India. Rape is one of the fastest-growing crimes in India,” the advisory stated. The warning adds that sexual violence, particularly in areas frequented by tourists, remains a critical concern.
The update comes in the wake of a deadly terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam region on April 2, when gunmen linked to Pakistan-based groups opened fire on tourists, killing 25. As a result, the US has imposed a strict travel restriction on the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, barring visits except to the eastern Ladakh region and its capital, Leh.
“Terrorist attacks and violent civil unrest are possible,” the State Department noted. “Violence is sporadic and common along the Line of Control (LoC) between India and Pakistan, as well as in key tourist spots in Kashmir like Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam.” The advisory also points out that the Indian government prohibits foreign tourists from accessing certain areas near the LoC.
Further compounding concerns, American citizens were warned about the potential for armed conflict between India and Pakistan, urging them to avoid border areas entirely. The advisory cautions that the US government’s ability to provide emergency services in India—especially in rural or remote regions—is limited.
In addition to threats posed by terrorism and sexual violence, the advisory highlighted the presence of Naxalite (Maoist extremist) groups, who remain active across a broad swath of eastern and central India. Affected states include Bihar, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Meghalaya, and areas from eastern Maharashtra to northern Telangana and western West Bengal.
The advisory also reminded travellers of legal restrictions on satellite phones and GPS devices. “Possessing a satellite phone or GPS device is illegal in India and may result in a fine of $200,000 or imprisonment for up to three years,” it warned.
Travellers are strongly urged not to travel alone—a point especially underscored for female travellers—and also to secure comprehensive travel insurance.
The political fallout within India has been immediate. The Indian National Congress criticised the Modi-led central government, calling the updated advisory a “shock” and an “embarrassment” on the global stage. The party argued that the advisory undermines India’s image just as trade negotiations with the United States are underway, with an interim agreement expected before July 8.
