IPS officer calls for action against Indians tarnishing country’s image abroad: ‘Visa rules are getting stricter’ | Today’s news
An Indian National Police (IPS) officer has warned that the growing number of viral videos showing Indians misbehaving abroad could have wider implications, including stricter visa policies for Indian travellers.
Arun Bothra, who serves as Odisha’s Additional DGP, CID-Crime and Transport Commissioner, shared his views on social media and argued that individuals whose actions tarnish India’s reputation overseas should be held accountable.
“People whose conduct abroad brings the country into disrepute should face certain consequences. In serious cases, restrictions on foreign travel for several years may also be considered,” Bothra wrote.
“Having an Indian passport is not just a right”
According to a senior police officer, every Indian traveling overseas represents the country and has an obligation to behave responsibly. He stressed that respecting local laws and maintaining proper public behavior are important responsibilities that come with holding an Indian passport.
“Having an Indian passport is not just a right. It also comes with an obligation to respect local laws, behave properly in public and protect the country’s image,” he said.
His comments come amid growing online debate over videos showing Indians dancing or creating social media content in public spaces in countries such as Vietnam and the United States. Social media users have also highlighted incidents involving rowdy behaviour, overcrowding in public places and, in some cases, allegations of theft from Indian tourists.
When a social media user suggested that Indians should not be concerned about how they are perceived by foreigners, Bothra responded by saying that he was not concerned about public opinion but about the possible impact on travel regulations.
“Visa rules are getting tighter for all Indians”
He warned that the “uncivilized and uncouth behavior” of a small number of people could affect the travel experience of other Indians by forcing countries to tighten entry requirements. As an example, he pointed to Thailand’s recent decision to end the 60-day visa-free program for 93 countries, including India.
“No, I am not worried about what foreigners think about the uncivilized and uncouth behavior of some of us. I am more concerned that visa rules are being tightened for all Indians because of such behavior. Thailand is a recent example,” an IPS officer told X.
He went on to note, “I just don’t want people in the host countries looking at us nervously and wondering which one of us is going to suddenly start dancing in the supermarket to make a reel.”
The post caused a wave of reactions on social networks. Here’s how people responded:
One user wrote: “If your post is related to Gujaratis doing garba, there is nothing wrong with it. I have seen foreigners singing in airports with musical instruments and no one criticizes them. So why the fuss?”
Another commented: “Absolutely. Travel ban! Passport suspension.”
A third user said: “Most are uncivilized.”
