Rajasthan Authorities Order British Tourists to Leave India After ‘Free Palestine’ Stickers Spark Visa Violation Probe

Two British nationals visiting the pilgrimage town of Pushkar have been ordered to leave India after authorities determined they violated the conditions of their tourist visas by pasting pro‑Palestine stickers in public spaces. The incident has drawn attention to India’s strict enforcement of visa regulations, particularly concerning political activities by foreign visitors.

Incident Uncovered Through Local Reports and CCTV Review

According to Rajasthan Police’s Criminal Investigation Department (CID), the matter surfaced on January 21, when local authorities reported the appearance of stickers bearing slogans such as “Free Palestine, Boycott Israel” across multiple locations in Pushkar. Investigators later established that the two tourists—identified as Lewis Gabriel D and Anushi Emma Christine, both in their 30s—had printed nine sheets of stickers at a local shop before posting them in public areas.

Pushkar, a town known for its significant Israeli tourist presence and several Jewish religious centres, including a Chabad House, was considered a sensitive location for such messaging. This prompted a swift response from intelligence and police units.

CID Investigation and Visa Rule Violations

A CID team reviewed CCTV footage and local inputs, identifying the couple as the individuals responsible for the sticker campaign. The tourists had arrived in India earlier in January, travelling directly from Delhi to Pushkar. During interrogation, they reportedly admitted to posting the stickers and apologised for their actions.

Authorities emphasised that tourist visas strictly prohibit participation in political activities, including actions that may “disrespect other nations” or influence public sentiment. Additional Superintendent of Police (CID) Rajesh Meena stated that India respects freedom of expression but does not permit foreign nationals to engage in political messaging while on tourist visas.

‘Leave India’ Notices Issued Under Immigration and Foreigners Act

Following the investigation, officials issued formal “Leave India” notices under the Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025, revoking the couple’s visas and directing them to depart the country immediately. Police also removed all stickers from public areas and conducted checks in tourist‑frequented zones to ensure no similar materials remained.

Authorities noted that foreign nationals found violating visa conditions may face detention, deportation proceedings, and potential blacklisting, which could bar future entry into India.

Context: Heightened Sensitivity Amid Global Tensions

The incident comes at a time of heightened global attention on the Israel‑Palestine conflict. Pushkar’s large Israeli tourist population has made local authorities particularly alert to actions that could inflame tensions or disrupt communal harmony.

India, while maintaining strong diplomatic ties with Israel, has historically supported a two‑state solution in international forums. The government has been cautious in its public stance amid ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Tourists Preparing to Depart

The Foreigners Registration Office (FRO) in Ajmer has instructed the couple to leave “at the earliest.” Officials confirmed that the tourists are in the process of booking their return flights. No formal complaints were filed by other tourists, but authorities acted proactively due to the sensitive nature of the messaging and its potential impact on foreign relations.