Travellers to India have been warned over increasing sexual assaults against women visiting the country.
The Foreign & Commonwealth Office updated its travel advice today in the wake of the rape of a Swiss tourist in Madyha Pradesh on Saturday.
“Women travellers should exercise caution when travelling in India even if they are travelling in a group,” the FCO said.
“Women should use caution when travelling in India. Reported cases of sexual assault against women and young girls are increasing; recent sexual attacks against female visitors in tourist areas and cities show that foreign women are also at risk.
“British women have been the victims of sexual assault in Goa, Delhi, Bangalore and Rajasthan and women travellers often receive unwanted attention in the form of verbal and physical harassment by individuals or groups of men.
“If you are a woman travelling in India you should respect local dress codes and customs and avoid isolated areas, including beaches, when alone at any time of day.”
The FCO added: “Avoid travelling alone on public transport, or in taxis or auto-rickshaws, especially at night. If you have to use a taxi, get them from hotel taxi ranks and use pre-paid taxis at airports.”