U.S. government warns women of risks in India

Thinking of travelling to India? You should be aware that Western women are facing an increasing risk of harassment and sexual assault. The widely-publicized rape and murder of British teen Scarlett Keeling in Goa and other known cases are highlighting the need for better safety practices and cultural awareness. The issue is prompting warnings in government travel advice for India.

A recent update to the Country Specific Information page for India (from the U.S. Department of State) includes new advice on how women can protect themselves while they travel. Here’s what the advice had to say:

“U.S. citizens, particularly women, are cautioned not to travel alone in India. Western women continue to report incidents of physical harassment by groups of men. Known as ”Eve-teasing,” these incidents can be quite frightening. While India is generally safe for foreign visitors, according to the latest figures by Indian authorities, rape is the fastest growing crime in India. Among large cities, Delhi experienced the highest number of crimes against women. Although most victims have been local residents, recent sexual attacks against female visitors in tourist areas underline the fact that foreign women are also at risk and should exercise vigilance.

“Women should observe stringent security precautions, including avoiding using public transport after dark without the company of known and trustworthy companions; restricting evening entertainment to well known venues; and avoiding walking in isolated areas alone at any time of day. Women should also ensure their hotel room numbers remain confidential and insist the doors of their hotel rooms have chains, deadlocks, and spy-holes. In addition, it is advisable for women to hire reliable cars and drivers and avoid traveling alone in hired taxis, especially during the hours of darkness. It is preferable to obtain taxis from hotels rather than hailing them on the street. If women encounter threatening situations, they can call 100 for police assistance.”

Of course, the advice is not exclusive to U.S. women, and the precautions mentioned above are good advice for travel in many countries. The latest news and advice for India can be found on our India Travel Advisory page.