Australia issues travel advisory for its people travelling to Manipur

Australia has issued a travel advisory for its people planning to travel to Manipur, the trouble-torn state in northeast India.

Manipur has been torn apart by ethnic clashes since May 3 and sporadic incidents of gun battle, arson and firing continue to be reported from different parts of the state. Road blockades, protests and demonstrations against the violence and killings are taking place almost every day putting normal life at stake.

The advisory issued by Smart Traveller, the Australian government’s travel advisory body on August 14 reads, “Curfews and restrictions continue in parts of Manipur following violent demonstrations, resulting in casualties. Security agencies have increased their presence in the region. Mobile internet services remain suspended, and transport services have been disrupted. Further restrictions may be imposed at short notice. If you’re in Manipur, avoid demonstrations and large public gatherings, follow the advice of local authorities, take official warnings seriously and monitor local media for updates.”

The advisory has asked Australians already in Manipur to avoid demonstrations and large public gatherings and stay alert.

Manipur has been torn apart by ethnic clashes since May 3 and sporadic incidents of gun battle, arson and firing continue to be reported from different parts of the state. Road blockades, protests and demonstrations against the violence and killings are taking place almost every day putting normal life at stake.

The advisory further talks about exercising “high degree of caution in India overall due to the high threat of terrorist activity, civil unrest and crime.”

Australian government has a “do not travel” warning for its people planning to travel to Jammu and Kashmir.

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