Public Service Announcement

From the U.S. Embassy in India:

On March 18, 2005 the Government of the United States revoked a visa held by the Chief Minister of Gujarat pursuant to section 212(a)(2)(G) of the U.S. Immigration and Nationality Act which prohibits the admission to the United States of any foreign government official believed to have responsibility for serious violations of religious freedom. Although the U.S. Government has no information regarding any specific activity that may be directed toward the U.S. Government or American citizens as a result of this decision, there is the possibility of an increase in anti-American sentiment, potentially resulting in demonstrations or other actions expressing hostility to U.S. Government policy or to American citizens. Such demonstrations could occur spontaneously and pose risks to travelers' personal safety as well as disrupt transportation systems and city services. In response to such events, Indian authorities occasionally impose curfews and/or restrict travel. As a precaution, the U.S. Foreign Commercial Service office in Ahmedabad, Gujarat has temporarily closed. U.S. citizens traveling in or residing in India are urged to keep abreast of news reports regarding reaction to the U.S. Government's decision and to avoid any area in which demonstrations may arise.

Message: Don't be an American, it isn't safe.

BEEEP

Flown by mariposa at 02:54 PM on March 18, 2005