A British couple has been served with an official "leave India" notice after authorities accused them of violating tourist visa regulations by engaging in political activities. The pair allegedly placed "Free Palestine" stickers at multiple locations in the popular temple town of Pushkar, located in the western Indian state of Rajasthan.
Police Action and Visa Violation
State police confirmed on Monday that Lewis Gabriel D and Anushi Emma Christine had their visas revoked under the Immigration and Foreigners Act of 2025. The notice mandates their immediate departure from the country. Authorities stated they received a report on 21 January detailing the visitors' actions in the tourist hotspot.
Official Statements on the Incident
Additional superintendent of police Rajesh Meena provided clear reasoning for the enforcement action. "Engaging in activities that disrespect other nations while on Indian soil is a clear violation of visa rules," he told the Times of India. In a separate statement to India Today, he emphasised the strict monitoring of foreign nationals' conduct.
"Our watch on the activities of foreign nationals is very strict. If any foreign citizen is found violating the conditions of a tourist visa, they will be identified and strict action will be taken, including deportation and blacklisting for the future," Meena stated.
Context of Pushkar and Regional Sensitivities
The choice of location adds a significant layer of context to the incident. Pushkar is renowned as a favoured destination for Israeli tourists, particularly those visiting India to relax after completing mandatory military service. Local media reports indicate the town currently hosts nearly 2,000 Israeli visitors, with many frequenting establishments linked to Chabad, a global Hasidic Jewish movement.
Broader Background of the Israel-Palestine Conflict
Calls to "free Palestine" have grown substantially louder since Israel launched its military campaign in Gaza in October 2023. The conflict has resulted in extensive casualties and destruction, with at least 71,800 Palestinians reported killed and the densely populated territory severely damaged. The war was triggered by a Hamas attack on southern Israel that killed approximately 1,200 people and took 251 hostages.
Despite a US-brokered ceasefire implemented last October, Israeli forces have continued operations in Gaza, resulting in further fatalities. The humanitarian situation remains dire, with over 18,000 injured people awaiting medical attention according to the World Health Organization, and Gazan health authorities estimating the figure exceeds 20,000. UNICEF reports that more than 3,000 of those affected are children.
India's Diplomatic Position
India has maintained a nuanced stance regarding the conflict. While strengthening bilateral ties with Israel under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Hindu nationalist government—with Israel now being one of India's major arms suppliers—the country has historically supported a two-state solution in international forums. Modi is anticipated to visit Israel later this month, as confirmed by Israel's ambassador to India.
In a recent development, Israel permitted five critically ill Palestinian patients to leave Gaza via the Rafah Crossing after its reopening on Monday. This fell short of earlier reports suggesting 50 patients with two relatives each would be allowed to exit daily as part of ceasefire arrangements.
The Independent has contacted the Indian foreign ministry for further comment on this specific case involving the British tourists.
