Odisha Safer Than Most: Minister Counters US Travel Advisory

In a forceful rebuttal to the recent US travel advisory flagging Odisha as a high-risk destination, Minister of Food Supplies, Consumer Welfare, Science & Technology, Krushna Chandra Patra, asserted on Sunday that the state remains one of the safest and most peaceful in the country.

Speaking to reporters, Patra questioned the basis of the advisory, which cited risks of crime and terrorism, especially in southwest Odisha. “Is there no unrest in America? They have mass shootings, violent protests, and even an attack on Trump and the White House. On what grounds are they judging us?” he asked.

The minister underscored that Odisha has a zero-tolerance policy towards crime, with law enforcement mechanisms in place to ensure public safety. “People in Odisha live in harmony. You won’t find an atmosphere like this anywhere else,” he affirmed.

The US advisory, issued on June 18, advised its citizens to “exercise increased caution” in India, particularly highlighting incidents of terrorism, civil unrest, and violent crimes like sexual assault, especially in tourist and public areas. It specifically mentioned 14 Indian states, including Odisha, cautioning against travel to Maoist-affected regions.

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The advisory also highlighted rising sexual assault cases across India. However, Patra countered by stressing that such incidents are taken seriously and handled firmly in Odisha. “We do not brush these matters under the carpet,” he said.

While the US advisory requires its personnel to seek special approval before travelling beyond Bhubaneswar, the state government maintains that such cautionary labelling unfairly affects Odisha’s image, especially as it works to boost tourism and development.