A debate around the conduct of Indian tourists overseas has gained fresh attention after a senior IPS officer warned that the actions of a few travellers
could have wider consequences for all Indian passport holders. Reacting to a growing number of viral videos showing Indians engaging in 'disruptive or attention-seeking' behaviour in public spaces abroad, the officer argued that such incidents risk damaging the country's reputation and could eventually influence how other nations frame their visa policies toward Indians. IPS officer Arun Bothra, currently serving as Additional DGP, CID-Crime and Transport Commissioner, Odisha, shared his views on social media, suggesting that those who tarnish India's image while travelling overseas should face accountability. “People whose behaviour abroad brings a bad name to the country should face some consequences. In serious cases, restrictions on foreign travel for some years can also be considered,” wrote Bothra. The officer stressed that carrying an Indian passport comes with responsibilities in addition to rights. According to him, travellers are expected to respect local laws, follow public norms and conduct themselves in a manner that reflects positively on the country. “Having an Indian passport is not just a right. It also comes with the responsibility to respect local laws, behave properly in public, and protect the country’s image,” he said in his X post.
His remarks come amid a series of viral videos showing Indian tourists dancing, filming reels and creating disturbances in public spaces in countries such as Vietnam and the United States. Social media users have also frequently raised concerns about loud behaviour, disregard for public etiquette and other actions by some travellers that they believe reinforce negative stereotypes.
When one user argued that Indians should not be concerned about the opinions of foreigners, Bothra clarified that his concern was not about perception alone but about practical consequences that could affect travellers from India.
According to him, repeated instances of what he described as inappropriate conduct could prompt countries to adopt stricter entry requirements for Indian citizens. Referring to Thailand's recent visa policy changes, he warned that the behaviour of a few individuals could end up impacting millions of genuine travellers.
“No, I am not worried about what foreigners think of uncivilised and uncouth behaviour of some of us. What worries me more is that because of such behaviour, visa rules are getting tougher for all Indians. Thailand is recent example,” the IPS officer said on X.
“I just don’t want people in host countries to look at us nervously, wondering which one of us will suddenly start dancing in a supermarket to make a reel,” he added.
