WEBDESK: In a statement that has not only rattled India’s struggling tourism sector but also severely damaged the country’s international reputation, New Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta admitted that India is not a safe place for tourists and warned foreigners to come at their own risk.
The reckless remark, made during a press conference while responding to a journalist’s question, has triggered outrage across political, business, and civil society circles.
At a time when the Indian government is spending billions of rupees to salvage its collapsing tourism image through glitzy campaigns like Incredible India, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta’s candid admission has exposed the grim reality behind the facade. This statement is no less than an earthquake for the already fragile Indian tourism industry.
Rajan Malhotra, President of the Tour Operators Association of India, blasted the Chief Minister’s remarks, calling them “an economic bombshell.” He added, “On one hand, the government advertises ‘Incredible India,’ and on the other, its own leaders are turning it into ‘Fragile India.’”
Opposition leaders wasted no time turning up the heat. Congress leader Shashi Tharoor mocked the Chief Minister, questioning whether she was a public office holder or a reckless YouTuber. “If you can’t ensure tourist safety, resign. Stop terrifying the public,” he said.
The Aam Aadmi Party went even further, declaring the statement a “public admission of failure.” They warned Rekha Gupta to fear for her own office instead of frightening the people.
The timing of this statement is highly telling, with a string of recent rape, assault, and murder cases involving foreign tourists in India. Analysts argue that instead of tackling problems through action, leaders like Rekha Gupta prefer sensational rhetoric to deflect responsibility.
Female travelers in India, days after the US State Department issued a new travel advisory for female travelers’ safety, a French tourist was allegedly raped in Rajasthan’s Udaipur area.
Last week, US State Department urged female travelers to avoid traveling to India alone as rape and assault cases are increasing in India.
“Do not travel alone, if you are a woman,” warned the State Department advisory.
Kolkata law student rape case is another shocking gang rape case has appeared in India, the case of a law student in Kolkata, just months after the brutal RG Kar case.
