Britain protests after India tightens visa rules
By ANITuesday, December 22, 2009
LONDON - Britain has lodged a diplomatic protest against the tightening of India’s visa rules, which prohibits travellers from returning to the country within two months of any visit.
Indian Government has changed its visa regulations for British and US visitors following the arrest of Pakistani-American terror suspect David Headley, who has been charged by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) with being part of the conspiracy in 26/11 Mumbai attacks.
He was found to have used a multiple entry business visa to make nine trips to India, during which time he is alleged to have visited a number of potential targets.
India has also targeted long-term visitors who have abused business visas to prolong their stay in the country, often for years.
“We have discussed this matter with the Government of India. We understand the Indian government is reconsidering its plans,” The Telegraph quoted a spokesperson for the British High Commission in New Delhi, as saying.
The new rules mean will constitute an obstacle for many tourists planning to visit the sub-continent, and they would also be unable to use India as a base for regional travel.
India attracts 750,000 British visitors a year and a total of five million tourists. (ANI)
