Daijiworld Media Network- Washington

Washington, Jun 25: The United States Department of State has reissued its Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution advisory for citizens traveling to or residing in India, citing persistent risks stemming from crime, terrorism, and regional instability. The latest advisory, updated on June 16, includes revisions to entry protocols and detailed alerts about specific geographic regions within India.

While the advisory maintains its long-standing Level 2 status—first issued in 2022—it draws sharp focus on growing safety concerns, particularly for women and solo travelers. "Violent crimes, including sexual assault, have been reported at popular tourist destinations. Rape remains one of the fastest-growing crimes in the country," the advisory warns.

Tourists are specifically urged to avoid crowded locations such as markets, transport hubs, and government buildings—sites frequently identified as potential targets for terror-related incidents.

The advisory strongly cautions against travel to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir (excluding Leh in eastern Ladakh), describing it as a zone of heightened terrorism and civil unrest. “Terrorist attacks and violent unrest are possible. Avoid travel to tourist destinations such as Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam,” the document notes.

The warning comes just weeks after a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22, where 26 civilians were killed by militants suspected to be linked to Pakistan-based terror groups.
Raising further concern, the advisory flags Maoist activity in parts of eastern and central India. States including Bihar, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and parts of West Bengal and Telangana are identified as Naxalite-affected zones where violent incidents can occur without warning.

Officials from the Trump administration, which oversees foreign travel safety, also underscored the increased vulnerability of female travelers. "Avoid traveling alone, particularly in remote or rural areas, where consular support is limited," the statement added.

Travelers are also reminded of the legal risks involved in carrying restricted equipment: “Possession of satellite phones or GPS devices is prohibited in India and may attract penalties up to $200,000 or imprisonment up to three years.”

To ensure safer travel, American nationals are urged to:

• Enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)

• Avoid raw food and unfiltered water

• Travel with valid visas

• Be cautious while using public transport

• Adhere to local laws, customs, and dress codes

LGBTQ+ travelers are advised to remain discreet, especially in conservative regions where societal acceptance may be limited.

Despite the challenges highlighted, the US continues to list India as a Level 2 country—similar to several other nations—signifying a moderate level of caution, not an outright restriction. However, the consistency in these warnings over the past three years reflects the sustained nature of these risks, especially in sensitive areas.