A British couple has been ordered to leave India after allegedly affixing 'Free Palestine' stickers in Pushkar, a temple town in Rajasthan. Police said Lewis Gabriel D and Anushi Emma Christine violated tourist visa rules by engaging in political activities.
Authorities received a report on 21 January that the couple was putting up stickers reading 'Free Palestine. Boycott Israel' at multiple locations. Additional Superintendent of Police Rajesh Meena stated that such actions disrespect other nations and breach visa conditions.
Under the Immigration and Foreigners Act of 2025, the couple's visas were revoked and they were ordered to leave India immediately. Meena emphasised that foreign nationals found violating visa rules face deportation and blacklisting.
Pushkar is a popular destination for Israeli tourists, many of whom visit after military service. The incident comes amid heightened tensions over the Gaza war, which began after a Hamas attack on Israel in October 2023 and subsequent Israeli military operations that have killed tens of thousands of Palestinians.
India has maintained a balanced position, supporting a two-state solution while strengthening bilateral ties with Israel under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government. The Indian foreign ministry has not commented on the expulsion.
