Terrorist attacks are possible in India anywhere and at any time.
The Australian Government continues to receive reports that terrorists are planning attacks in India.
The Indian government regularly issues public alerts about possible terrorist attacks.
Terrorist attacks could target foreigners. Violence directed at others may affect you.
Terrorists have targeted popular tourist areas, including:
- Hotels, markets, and cinemas
- tourist and religious sites.
- transport hubs and public transport networks.
- sporting events
- local courts and Indian security and political establishments.
Targets could also include major tourist attractions and shopping centers.
Attacks could happen during significant times, such as:
- Republic Day, January 26th
- Independence Day, 15 August
- other major holidays
- periods of religious significance
Many terrorist attacks in India have involved multiple explosions, one after the other. These attacks have caused a high number of deaths.
Militants have crossed the border into India to conduct attacks in the past. It’s likely this will continue.
Attacks on military and police in Jammu and Kashmir often lead to violent clashes.
Security on public transport is limited, including on buses and railways.
Security at airports has been improved due to the threat of terrorist attacks against Indian aviation interests.
To protect yourself from terrorist attack:
- check the media for threats
- take official warnings seriously
- consider the level of security at your destination
- avoid areas that are possible terrorist targets
- have a clear exit plan for crowded places and possible targets
- report suspicious activity or items to police
If there’s an attack, leave the area as soon as it’s safe. Avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks.
Terrorism is a threat worldwide.
More information:
Jammu and Kashmir
On 5 August 2019, the Government of India announced constitutional changes that will affect the internal political status of Jammu and Kashmir.
A heightened Indian security presence is now in place, with additional restrictive measures applying to public gatherings, and internet and telecommunications services. Monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities.
In the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir there is a high risk of:
- armed clashes
- terrorist attacks
- violent demonstrations
There is a higher risk in rural areas and areas close to the border with Pakistan.
Terrorists have kidnapped foreigners in Jammu and Kashmir. Terrorists have also targeted tourist buses.
On 14 February 2019, terrorists killed and injured people in an attack on the Jammu-Srinagar highway.
People have been killed and seriously injured in widespread violent protests. More police have been sent to the region.
Avoid potential trouble spots in the Union Territory of Ladakh. Check the security situation before you travel.
Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana
Maoist insurgents, known as Naxalites, often attack rural and forested areas of the state of Chhattisgarh.
There is a risk of Naxalite violence in border regions of:
- Odisha
- Jharkhand
- Maharashtra
- Andhra Pradesh
- Telangana
Borders with Pakistan
Parts of the India-Pakistan border have a high risk of:
- landmines
- cross-border attacks
- violence
Always be alert to possible threats near the Atari-Wagah border crossing.
North-eastern states of Assam (except Guwahati), Nagaland and Manipur
The north-eastern states of Nagaland, Manipur and Assam, except Guwahati city, have a high risk of:
This includes rural areas.
Insurgent groups in these states have:
- attacked civilians
- bombed buildings
In January and February 2017, violent protests against local elections occurred in Kohima and Dimapur in the state of Nagaland. Protesters set municipal buildings and vehicles on fire.
In January 2017, 7 explosions took place in Charaideo, Bibrugarh, Sivasagar and Tinsukia districts in the state of Assam. There were 2 more explosions in Imphal in the state of Manipur.
In August 2016, terrorists attacked a market at Balajan Tinali in Kokrajhar district in the state of Assam. These attacks killed 14 people.