Rajasthan: Brits asked to 'leave India' for posting anti-Israel stickers
What's the story
The Rajasthan police's Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has issued a "leave India" notice to two British tourists, identified as Lewis Gabriel Dee and Anueshi Emma Christine. The action was taken after the tourists were found to have placed pro-Palestine and anti-Israel stickers in public places in Pushkar, the Times News Network reported. The stickers read "Free Palestine, Boycott Israel."
Investigation details
Stickers found in public places
The incident came to light on January 21 when local authorities found the stickers in public places. A CID team was then dispatched to investigate the matter. The ensuing investigation revealed that putting up such stickers by the two 36-year-olds not only hurt local sentiments but also violated the visa conditions of the tourists.
Visa violation
Visa conditions violated
The tourists arrived in India on tourist visas, which prohibit activities disrespecting other nations while on Indian soil. Additional Superintendent of Police (CID) Rajesh Meena said, "Engaging in activities that disrespect other nations while on Indian soil is a clear violation of visa rules." Under the Immigration and Foreigners Act, the CID issued a notice mandating their immediate departure from India.
Tourist hotspot
Pushkar is popular among Israeli tourists
Notably, Pushkar is a popular destination for Israeli tourists, with around 10,000 to 11,000 visiting every year. The town is home to nearly 2,000 Israeli visitors at any given time, and many of them visit Chabad-affiliated establishments. The Chabad is a Hasidic Jewish movement that has a worldwide network of community centers called Chabad Houses. Despite the controversy over the stickers, no complaints have been received from Israeli tourists so far. All offending stickers have been removed from public places.