British Tourists Issued ‘Leave India’ Notice for Pasting ‘Free Palestine’ Stickers in Rajasthan

India: Two British nationals have been ordered to leave India immediately after authorities found them pasting pro-Palestine stickers in public areas of Pushkar, a popular tourist destination in Rajasthan.

The couple, identified as Lewis Gabriel Dee (36) and Anueshi Emma Christine (36), were in India on tourist visas. Rajasthan Police’s Criminal Investigation Department (CID) launched an investigation following reports on January 21 that stickers bearing messages such as “Free Palestine, Boycott Israel” had appeared in various public locations across the town.

Using CCTV footage and local intelligence inputs, officers identified the pair and questioned them. The stickers were subsequently removed.

According to Additional Superintendent of Police (CID) Rajesh Meena, the act violated the conditions of their tourist visas, which prohibit political activities, propaganda, or actions that could disrespect other nations or disturb local sensitivities. Pushkar, known for attracting a significant number of Israeli tourists—including areas near a Chabad House—added context to the perceived provocation.

The tourists reportedly apologized during questioning. Their visas were revoked, and a “Leave India” notice was issued under the Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025, directing them to depart the country without delay.

This incident underscores India’s strict enforcement of visa regulations for foreigners, emphasizing that tourist visas are intended solely for tourism and not for political expression or activism. The story has drawn attention across Indian and international media, highlighting tensions around political activism by visitors amid the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict.