US Travel Advisory Update for India: MEA Responds to Crime Concerns
India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has officially responded to the updated travel advisory issued by the United States on June 16, 2025, which advises US citizens to exercise “increased caution” while traveling in India. The advisory, issued by the US Department of State, points to rising incidents of violent crime, including rape, and heightened risks in specific regions, particularly due to terrorism and civil unrest. The MEA, through spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, clarified that there has been no change in the overall risk classification for India, which continues to be rated at Level 2—meaning travelers should exercise increased caution. This rating has remained consistent for several years, and US authorities have confirmed to the Indian government that the advisory update only involves revised wording and not a change in India’s safety level.
The US advisory specifically warns travelers to avoid parts of Jammu and Kashmir, excluding Leh and eastern Ladakh, due to ongoing terrorism-related risks. It also highlights the limited capacity of the US government to offer emergency services in rural areas, particularly in regions like eastern Maharashtra, northern Telangana, and western West Bengal. Additionally, it states that rape is among the fastest-growing crimes in India and that violent crimes including sexual assault can occur even in urban tourist centers. The MEA acknowledged the advisory but emphasized that travel advisories are routinely issued by governments based on their evolving security assessments. Jaiswal noted that India also regularly issues similar advisories for Indian citizens traveling abroad.
Several Indian state leaders have voiced dissatisfaction with the US advisory, arguing that it paints an outdated and inaccurate picture of their regions. Leaders from states like Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and Jharkhand pointed to significant improvements in law and order, especially in areas previously affected by Maoist insurgencies. Meghalaya’s Chief Minister went further, describing the advisory’s inclusion of northeastern states as “absolutely incorrect,” and emphasized that isolated incidents should not define an entire region. However, the MEA chose a diplomatic tone, reiterating respect for the sovereign right of other nations to advise their citizens while also encouraging the use of balanced, up-to-date data when framing such advisories.
The updated advisory arrives amid a broader campaign by the US to tighten travel and immigration controls. Over the past month, the US Embassy in India has released multiple public statements highlighting stricter enforcement against visa misuse, unlawful immigration, and lack of transparency during visa applications. The embassy has made it clear that holding a US visa is a privilege, not a right, and that any unlawful activity while on a visa could result in revocation and a permanent ban on future eligibility. In particular, visa applicants are now required to disclose all social media handles used in the past five years to enhance background checks. Failing to provide this information can lead to denial or long-term ineligibility.
Despite the detailed nature of the US travel advisory, the MEA emphasized that India continues to be a vibrant and welcoming destination for millions of international travelers every year. The advisory does not prohibit travel to India but simply recommends caution, a standard applied to several other nations globally. The Indian government continues to work closely with the United States on multiple fronts, including defense, trade, education, and security cooperation, and this update is not expected to negatively impact bilateral ties. Both nations remain committed to facilitating safe, legal, and transparent travel for students, professionals, and tourists.