Parida Slams US Travel Advisory, Defends Odisha’s Safety

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida has strongly criticized the recent travel advisory issued by the United States, which urges American citizens to exercise increased caution while visiting several Indian regions, including Odisha.

Speaking to media persons in Bhubaneswar on Sunday, Parida downplayed the advisory, stating that the number of American tourists visiting Odisha is “negligible.” “Not a single tourist from the US has visited the state in the last three days,” she added.

Parida alleged that the advisory may be politically motivated. “It appears that the US President sees India’s rapid development across various sectors as a threat. That’s possibly why such an advisory has been issued, citing increased risks in some Indian states,” she remarked.

She further asserted that both India and Odisha remain safe under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi. “While US citizens must follow their government’s instructions, here, we are focused on ensuring the safety and development of our people,” she said.

Addressing concerns following a recent gang-rape incident in Gopalpur, the Deputy CM pointed to swift police response. “All accused were arrested within hours. The law is being enforced strictly, and we are considering measures to improve security at popular tourist and lovers’ spots across the state,” she added.

The US Department of State recently reaffirmed its Level 2 travel advisory for India, advising American citizens to “exercise increased caution” due to risks associated with crime and terrorism. The advisory particularly warns against solo travel, especially by women, and notes concerns over violent crimes, including sexual assault.

Regions highlighted in the advisory include eastern Maharashtra, northern Telangana, western West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Meghalaya, and Odisha — areas where Maoist activity reportedly persists.

The BJP-led government in Odisha has faced criticism in the wake of the advisory, but Parida maintained that the state remains committed to law enforcement and public safety.