Emergency Help Abroad – India

Crime & Legal Awareness

A concise overview of the key laws, legal expectations and enforcement practices travellers should understand before visiting India — including behaviours that may be acceptable in the UK but carry stricter penalties or different interpretations abroad.

1. STRICT DRUG, WEAPON & ALCOHOL LAWS

• India has extremely strict drug laws — possession, use or trafficking leads to arrest and long prison sentences.

• Carrying weapons, including knives or sprays, without lawful purpose is illegal.

• Drink-driving is a criminal offence and police frequently conduct breath tests.

• Alcohol laws vary by state; some regions have full or partial bans.

• Attempting to bring illegal substances into India results in immediate detention.

2. RESPECT FOR CULTURE, PUBLIC MORALS & ENVIRONMENT

• India is culturally conservative — modest dress is expected, especially in temples and rural areas.

• Littering or damaging public spaces is punishable by fines.

• Public displays of affection may attract negative attention outside major cities.

• Disrespecting religious practices or entering sacred areas without permission is prohibited.

• Vandalising monuments or historic buildings is a criminal offence.

3. PUBLIC BEHAVIOUR & CIVIL ORDER

• Police may ask for identification — carry your passport or a copy.

• Petty crime occurs in crowded areas such as markets, train stations and tourist zones.

• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unlit or remote areas.

• Large crowds and protests can form quickly — foreigners should avoid demonstrations.

• Attempting to bribe officials is illegal.

4. TRAVEL, TRANSPORT & ADMINISTRATIVE OFFENCES

• Use licensed taxis, metro services or reputable ride-hailing apps; avoid unregistered vehicles.

• Train travel requires valid tickets — travelling without one leads to fines.

• Road rules vary by state; speeding and unsafe driving are common risks.

• Overstaying your visa leads to fines or exit delays.

• Entering restricted forest or wildlife zones without permits is prohibited.

5. PHOTOGRAPHY, DRONE & SECURITY RESTRICTIONS

• Drone use is regulated — most flights require official approval.

• Do not photograph military bases, airports, bridges or security installations.

• Some temples, museums and monuments restrict photography — respect signage.

• Always ask permission before photographing individuals, especially in rural communities.

6. ENVIRONMENTAL & SAFETY LAWS

• Removing stones, plants or natural materials from protected areas is prohibited.

• Swimming in unmonitored rivers, beaches or monsoon-affected waters can be dangerous.

• Lighting fires in national parks or forested areas is illegal.

• Feeding wildlife in national parks is discouraged and may be punishable.

• Hiking off marked trails can be unsafe due to wildlife or terrain.

7. RESPECT FOR NATURE, CULTURE & HERITAGE SITES

• Damaging temples, monuments or archaeological sites is a serious criminal offence.

• Removing cultural artefacts or historic items is strictly illegal.

• Entering sacred temple areas without permission is forbidden.

• Buying wildlife products such as ivory or animal skins is illegal.

What You Shouldn’t Do - Behaviours Travellers Should Avoid.

These are important behaviours and actions to avoid to stay respectful, safe and aligned with local expectations. Remember that what feels familiar or harmless in the UK may be perceived through a different cultural lens in India.

• Don’t wear revealing clothing at temples, mosques or rural areas, and cover shoulders, knees and midriff.

• Don’t touch or photograph people without permission, especially women or older individuals.

• Don’t drink tap water, and avoid washed salads, street ice and uncooked dishes in uncertain places.

• Don’t accept drinks or food from strangers, especially on trains or buses.

• Don’t show public affection, which is frowned upon in many regions.

• Don’t enter religious sites with shoes on, and follow signs regarding photography.

• Don’t point your feet at holy objects or people, as this is disrespectful.

• Don’t approach stray dogs or monkeys, as bites and disease are risks.

• Don’t be aggressive in bargaining, and keep negotiations polite.

• Don’t use unlicensed taxis or autorickshaws, and agree fares before starting the journey.

• Don’t assume all areas are safe to walk alone at night, particularly in busy or unfamiliar neighbourhoods.

• Don’t ignore pollution levels, particularly in major cities during winter months.

• Don’t take photos of military buildings, airports or government offices, where restrictions apply.

• Don’t give money directly to children begging, and donate to organisations instead.

• Don’t rely solely on cards, as many markets remain cash-focused.

• Don’t accept extremely cheap tours or transport, which may involve scams.

• Don’t ignore heat and humidity, especially in central and southern India.

• Don’t be careless with belongings on trains, where petty theft occurs.

• Don’t disrespect local customs during festivals, which often involve crowds and rituals.

• Don’t underestimate distances, as travel can be slow even between major cities.