Terrorism

Terrorism
Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in India.
UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying

safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out
more about the global threat from terrorism.
Terrorist attacks are carried out by a number of terrorist and insurgent

groups including Lashkar-e-Tayyiba (LET), Jaish-e-Mohammed (JEM)
and Naxalite. Media reports suggest Daesh (formerly referred to as ISIL)
and other groups are looking to attack targets in India, either directly or
through inspiring self initiated attacks. Similarly, Al Qaeda in the Indian
Subcontinent (AQIS) has previously targeted India. There may be an
increased threat to places visited by British nationals such as religious
sites, markets, festival venues and beaches and any places involving
large gatherings of people.
Terrorist attacks have mainly focused on Indian government interests but

terrorists have also targeted places visited by foreigners including
restaurants, hotels, railway stations, markets, places of worship, festivals
and sporting venues. Be vigilant, especially in public places. Always
monitor local media for any local travel warnings before planning your
travel. If you see unattended baggage, report it promptly. Security has
been strengthened, notably at major hotels and transport hubs (airports,
railway and metro stations).
Take particular care in the lead up to and on days of national and/or

religious significance, like Republic Day (26 January), Independence
Day (15 August), Diwali (usually in October/November) and Eid (usually
May/June).
There have been frequent terrorist incidents in Jammu and Kashmir and
less often in other parts of the north east India. A significant terrorist
attack took place in Pulwama (Jammu and Kashmir) on 14 February
2019. There is a continuing threat, predominantly towards Indian
government targets.
A number of insurgent groups are active in Assam. There have been
random incidents of violence and killings primarily directed at the Indian
government. Violent extremist groups are also active in the rural areas of
Jharkand, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and in parts of Bihar and West Bengal.
There’s a heightened threat of terrorist attack globally against UK

interests and British nationals from groups or individuals motivated by
the conflict in Iraq and Syria. You should remain vigilant.
Local laws and customs

There may be very serious penalties for breaking a law which might
seem trivial to you, or for doing something which may not be illegal in the
UK. Hobbies involving cameras and binoculars, like bird-watching or
plane spotting, may be misunderstood particularly near military sites,
government buildings, airports and railway stations.
Indian family law is very different from UK law and particular caution is
needed when, for example, child custody becomes an issue.
Alcohol
The laws governing alcohol vary from state to state. Consumption of
alcohol is prohibited in Bihar, Gujarat, Mizoram, Nagaland and the union
territory of Lakshadweep. There is a partial ban in some districts in
Manipur.
Consumption or possession of alcohol in prohibited states can lead to

arrest without bail and charges which carry a sentence of 5 to 10 years.
In some states foreign nationals and non-resident Indians are able to
buy 30-day alcohol permits. Seek advice from your local travel
agent/hotel or the authorities to ensure you’re aware of any alcohol
prohibition in the state.
During major religious festivals, national holidays and elections, a ban on

the sale of alcohol is often imposed.
Smoking and E-cigarettes
Smoking is banned in public places, with the exception of airports, hotels
and restaurants with designated smoking areas. E-cigarettes and related
products are banned. You will be unable to buy e-cigarettes in India or
bring them into the country.
Drugs
Don’t get involved with illegal drugs. There is no categorising of drugs
into Class A, B and C. There is a minimum sentence of 6 months for
possession of small amounts deemed for personal consumption only. A
10-year sentence for possession of other amounts applies. The judicial
process is slow and pre-trial detention lasting several years is normal.
Customs regulations
Indian customs has strict rules about goods that can be brought into and
taken out of the country. Failure to declare contents you’re carrying
which may be prohibited or subject to a tax or duty payment can lead to
heavy penalties including imprisonment. You can find more information
about the list of items and rules and regulations on the Indian Customs
website.
For information about rules on travelling with currency, see Money.
It is illegal to possess and operate satellite phones in India, and British

nationals have been arrested for bringing satellite phones into the
country without prior permission from the Indian authorities. More
information on the use of satellite phones can be found on
the Department of Telecommunications’ website.
You may need prior permission from the Indian authorities to bring
equipment like listening or recording devices, radio transmitters,
powerful cameras or binoculars into India. Seek advice from the Indian
High Commission in London.
LGBT
In September 2018, the Indian Supreme Court decriminalised
homosexuality. Although homosexuality is no longer prohibited by law,
same-sex marriage is still illegal. Indian society remains conservative
and public attitudes towards LGBT people can be less tolerant than in
the UK. This is especially the case outside of big cities. LGBT travellers
should be mindful of local attitudes and be aware that public displays of
affection may attract unwanted attention. See our advice page for LGBT
travellers.
Wildlife
It’s illegal to buy, sell, kill or capture any protected wild animal or trade its
parts without a licence. India has a strong legal framework to regulate
and restrict wildlife trade and is also a signatory to the Convention on
International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora
(CITES). If you’re caught purchasing or trafficking such goods illegally,
you will be prosecuted and receive prison sentences or fines.
Sexual offences
The penalties for child sex offences are severe. Legislation prescribes a
minimum jail term of 20 years, which may go up to life imprisonment, or
a death sentence to those convicted of raping a child below 12 years of
age.

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Terrorism

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Terrorism

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in India.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying

Terrorist attacks are carried out by a number of terrorist and insurgent

Terrorist attacks have mainly focused on Indian government interests but

Take particular care in the lead up to and on days of national and/or

There’s a heightened threat of terrorist attack globally against UK

Local laws and customs

Consumption or possession of alcohol in prohibited states can lead to

During major religious festivals, national holidays and elections, a ban on

For information about rules on travelling with currency, see Money.

It is illegal to possess and operate satellite phones in India, and British

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