Terrorism

In July 1995, Western tourists, including two Americans, were kidnapped by terrorists in Kashmir. One hostage was brutally murdered and one escaped. The remaining hostages, including one American, have not been released and their whereabouts are unknown. In 1994, several tourists, including an American, were held for weeks by Kashmiri militants before police rescued them. Since January 1996, New Delhi has been the site of a dozen terrorist bombing attacks, some with multiple explosive devices (four exploded in October 1997 alone). These bomb blasts have occurred in public places, as well as on public transportation (common carriers), such as trains and buses. While no U.S. citizens were among the victims, other foreign visitors were reported injured. There is no pattern that has emerged in these attacks, nor is there any indication that they are directed against foreigners in general or Americans in particular. Nevertheless U.S. citizens should be alert to suspicious packages in public places, and avoid crowds, political demonstrations, and other manifestations of civil unrest.