Security officials in Jammu and Kashmir detained and questioned a Chinese national on Sunday for allegedly violating his tourist visa conditions by visiting restricted areas without the necessary permissions.
Questioning in Budgam Homestay
The incident took place in the Budgam district of central Kashmir. Police and intelligence personnel located the 29-year-old man at a local homestay where he was staying. Upon interrogation, he revealed that he had entered the Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, areas not permitted under the specific conditions of his visa.
Inspiration from Films and Books on Kashmir
During questioning, the Chinese tourist made some surprising revelations about his motives. He informed officials that his father is a businessman in China. He also stated that he had watched Indian films like 'The Kashmir Files' and 'Article 370', which seemingly sparked his interest in the region. The man further claimed he was actively searching for books on Kashmir, specifically mentioning 'Curfewed Night' by author Basharat Peer, and that he had visited the Zanskar region as a tourist.
Visa Violations and Potential Deportation
Investigations revealed a clear breach of visa regulations. The Chinese national had arrived in New Delhi on November 19 on a tourist visa that explicitly limited his travel to designated Buddhist circuit destinations. These permitted locations included Varanasi, Agra, New Delhi, Sarnath, and Gaya.
However, just a day later, on November 20, he flew directly to Leh in Ladakh. He also failed to comply with mandatory registration protocols for foreigners, skipping the Foreigners' Regional Registration Office (FRRO) counter at Leh airport.
While the individual was released after initial questioning, a police official indicated that the case is not closed. He may be summoned again for further investigation, and authorities are considering deportation proceedings against him for the visa violations.
