US travel advisory reflects geopolitics not concern Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat

Vijayawada, June 26 (PTI) Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on Thursday criticised the US for issuing travel advisories to its citizens visiting India, calling it a move driven by "geopolitical motives" rather than genuine concern for safety.
Addressing a press meet to mark the 50th anniversary of the Emergency declared in 1975, Shekhawat said the US should first introspect on its own internal issues before questioning India’s law and order or democratic values.
Last week, the US had issued an advisory for its citizens travelling to India, urging "increased caution due to crime and rape". It also advised them against travelling to certain parts of central and eastern parts of the country "due to terrorism".
“This is not about law and order. It’s about geopolitics. The US should look at what’s happening in Los Angeles before issuing such advisories,” he said.
Shekhawat called the Emergency, imposed by former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, “darkest chapter” of Indian democracy.
He said the Centre would observe Samvidhan Hatya Divas (Constitution Murder Day) nationwide to educate the youth about the constitutional values and democratic vigilance.

(This story has not been edited by THE WEEK and is auto-generated from PTI)