Visa Rules enforced as British tourists are ordered to leave India for posting ‘Free Palestine’ stickers in Rajasthan’s Pushkar.
‘Free Palestine’ Stickers in Pushkar Lead to Police Action, CID Orders Departure : Visa Rules
Qalam Times News Network
New Delhi | February 4, 2026
Visa Rules came under sharp focus after Indian authorities directed two British tourists to leave the country for allegedly violating the conditions of their travel permits. The couple is accused of displaying political messages in a prominent temple town of Rajasthan, prompting swift action from local police and immigration officials.
According to officials, the tourists—identified as Lewis Gabriel D and Anushi Emma Christine—were found pasting stickers reading “Free Palestine” and “Boycott Israel” across public spaces in Pushkar, a destination known for attracting large numbers of international visitors, including Israeli tourists. Police said complaints were received on January 21, following which an inquiry was launched.
Authorities Cite Clear Breach of Visa Conditions
The Rajasthan Criminal Investigation Department (CID) stated that Visa Rules explicitly prohibit foreign nationals on tourist visas from participating in political activities of any kind. Officials said the couple’s actions fell squarely within prohibited conduct.
Rajesh Meena, Additional Superintendent of Police, told local media that engaging in activities perceived as politically sensitive or disrespectful toward other nations while in India is not permitted. “Tourist visas are meant strictly for travel and leisure. Any deviation from this, especially political advocacy, invites legal consequences,” he said.
As part of the investigation, police teams removed the stickers and reviewed CCTV footage from nearby locations. Places visited by the tourists were also checked to ensure no further violations had occurred.
Leave India Notice Issued Under Immigration Law
Following the inquiry, authorities issued formal notices directing the tourists to exit the country. The notices were served under the Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025. Officials also indicated that future consequences could include blacklisting, depending on the final assessment by immigration authorities.
A senior CID official said India maintains strict oversight of foreign visitors and will not hesitate to act if Visa Rules are breached. “Any foreign national violating visa conditions will be identified, proceeded against, and, if necessary, deported,” the official said.
Broader Context Raises Political Questions
The incident comes amid heightened sensitivity around expressions of solidarity with Palestine in India. Political observers note that scrutiny has increased in recent months, with reports of detentions, cancelled demonstrations, and restrictions on public displays related to the issue.
The developments have sparked debate about freedom of expression, particularly as large-scale protests supporting Palestinians continue to take place in several countries worldwide. Rights groups argue that the tightening response raises concerns, especially in light of the growing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where international agencies report tens of thousands injured and in urgent need of medical care.
While Indian authorities maintain that the action was purely a matter of enforcing Visa Rules, the case has drawn international attention and reopened discussion on how political expression by foreign nationals is handled within the country. The matter underscores the fine line between tourism and political activity under Indian law.
