US updates travel advisory for Americans in India: Avoid J&K, Manipur, and more
As per the latest development, the US Department of State updated its travel advisory for India, advising American citizens to exercise caution and reconsider travel plans to several regions of the country.
The advisory reflects the latest security concerns and situational developments, categorising different areas with varying levels of risk.
India overall is classified under ‘Level 2’ (Exercise Increased Caution), indicating a general need for vigilance while travelling. However, specific regions have been flagged with more severe warnings. The advisory highlights several areas where travel is strongly discouraged or outright prohibited.
The northeastern states of India have been downgraded to ‘Level 3’ (Reconsider Travel), reflecting ongoing instability in the region. The advisory cites ethnic clashes in Manipur, which have been ongoing since May 2023, as a key reason for this caution. Travellers are advised to be particularly vigilant in these areas due to sporadic violence and unrest.
More concerning is the advisory’s ‘Level 4’ (Do Not Travel) designation for certain high-risk areas. American nationals are urged to avoid the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, the India-Pakistan border, parts of central and East India, and Manipur. These regions are highlighted due to significant safety concerns, including terrorist attacks, violent civil unrest, and clashes between Indian and Pakistani forces along the Line of Control (LoC). Despite these warnings, the neighbouring Union Territory of Ladakh is considered safer for travel.
The advisory notes a concerning rise in violent crime in India, including sexual assaults that have occurred at tourist sites and other locations. It also warns of potential terrorist attacks targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets, and government facilities, with little or no warning.
Furthermore, the advisory highlights challenges faced by US Government services in providing emergency assistance in rural areas. Stretching from eastern Maharashtra to northern Telangana and western West Bengal, these areas are often difficult to access and may pose additional risks. US Government employees require special authorisation to travel to these regions, underscoring the safety concerns.
The presence of Maoist extremist groups, known as Naxals or Naxalites, in central and eastern India further complicates the security situation. These groups frequently target local officials and have been responsible for violent incidents in these areas. Similarly, the advisory points to occasional violence by ethnic insurgent groups in the northeastern states as a reason for heightened caution.
In short, although India remains a popular travel destination, the updated advisory shows the importance of careful planning and awareness of regional security issues. American travellers are advised to stay informed and exercise heightened caution, especially when visiting high-risk areas.