In a stunning revelation, Union Tourism and Culture Minister Mahesh Sharma has stirred a controversy by stating that tourists visiting India should not wear skirts. He also said that his ministry was planning to distribute a welcome card to all tourists either by rail or air. These cards will be distributed at the time of arrival.
The card will also showcase information about the various tourists’ sports. Moreover, the card will also have dos and don’ts, which reportedly will also advise women tourists not to roam alone at night. The tourists should also not wear skirts when they travel alone.
Responding to media, Sharma disclosed that the government has opened a helpline number 1363. If any tourists have any problem they can call this phone number. The important cases will be escalated.
Welcome card to be given to tourists on arrival
He said that when a foreign tourist reaches the airport or railway station, they will be provided with a welcome card. It will have various activities which the tourists are allowed to do in India. The card will have a detailed list of activities which the tourists are not allowed to perform, including the skirt issue.
Tourists should not walk on empty roads
As per the information on the card, tourists should not roam alone at night if they are in small cities without much human presence. In such cases, they should avoid wearing skirts. However, this restriction seems to be absent if the tourists are located in big cities.
Commenting on the relevance of the new proposal, Sharma also added that the government suggested that tourists should click photographs of the number plates of cabs they are traveling by. Moreover, they should share the picture with their friends. This will enable the number to be stored and circulated to help law enforcement agencies in case of any adverse activities.
No dress code
In the meantime, Sharma said the government is not planning to introduce any dress code for the tourists and visitors. We want to protect the lives of the tourists from persons who abuse them.
