Kerala, a state in the southern part of India, is known for its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. With its lush green hills, pristine beaches, and serene backwaters, Kerala is a popular tourist destination. However, with the recent rise in crime rates and political unrest, many tourists are wondering if Kerala is still a safe place to visit. In this article, we will delve into the current situation in Kerala and provide an honest answer to this question.
Understanding the Situation
Kerala has been facing a series of challenges in recent years, including political unrest, economic instability, and rising crime rates. The state has been plagued by protests and demonstrations, which have sometimes turned violent. The political situation has been tense, with the ruling party and the opposition engaging in a bitter battle for power.
However, it’s important to note that Kerala is a vast state with a diverse geography and population. While some areas may be affected by the political unrest, others remain peaceful and safe for tourists. The state government has taken steps to ensure the safety of tourists, including increasing the number of police personnel and setting up special tourist police teams.
Crime Rates
Kerala has seen a rise in crime rates in recent years, including theft, robbery, and violent crimes. However, the majority of these crimes are committed by local gangs and are not targeted at tourists. The state government has launched several initiatives to combat crime, including the establishment of a special crime branch and the introduction of a mobile app to report crimes.
According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), Kerala has one of the highest crime rates in the country. In 2020, the state reported a crime rate of 565.3 per 100,000 people, which is higher than the national average of 437.6 per 100,000 people. However, it’s important to note that the majority of these crimes are minor and do not pose a significant threat to tourists.
Political Unrest
Kerala has been facing political unrest in recent years, with protests and demonstrations becoming a regular feature in the state. The protests are often peaceful, but sometimes they can turn violent, leading to clashes between protesters and the police. (See Also: Is it Safe to Visit Borneo Now? Post-Pandemic Travel Guide)
The political situation in Kerala is complex and multifaceted, with several parties and factions vying for power. The state is currently governed by the Left Democratic Front (LDF), which has been in power since 2016. However, the opposition United Democratic Front (UDF) has been challenging the LDF’s rule, leading to a series of protests and demonstrations.
While the political unrest can be unsettling for tourists, it’s important to note that the majority of the protests are peaceful and do not pose a significant threat to visitors. The state government has taken steps to ensure the safety of tourists, including setting up special tourist police teams and increasing the number of police personnel in tourist areas.
Precautions to Take
If you are planning to visit Kerala, there are several precautions you can take to ensure your safety. Here are a few tips:
- Stay informed about the current situation in Kerala and check for any travel advisories issued by your government.
- Avoid areas that are known to be affected by political unrest or crime.
- Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
- Avoid traveling alone at night and use reputable taxi services or public transportation.
- Keep your valuables secure and do not carry large amounts of cash.
- Respect local customs and traditions, and avoid any areas that may be considered sensitive or controversial.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Kerala is facing several challenges, including political unrest and rising crime rates, the state is still a safe place to visit. The state government has taken steps to ensure the safety of tourists, and the majority of the crimes are minor and do not pose a significant threat to visitors.
If you are planning to visit Kerala, it’s important to take some basic precautions to ensure your safety. Stay informed about the current situation, avoid areas that are known to be affected by political unrest or crime, and be aware of your surroundings. With some basic precautions and an understanding of the current situation, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Kerala. (See Also: Playa Del Carmen Safe to Visit? Is It Worth It)
Recap
Here is a recap of the key points discussed in this article:
- Kerala is facing political unrest and rising crime rates, but the majority of the crimes are minor and do not pose a significant threat to tourists.
- The state government has taken steps to ensure the safety of tourists, including setting up special tourist police teams and increasing the number of police personnel in tourist areas.
- It’s important to take some basic precautions to ensure your safety while visiting Kerala, including staying informed about the current situation, avoiding areas that are known to be affected by political unrest or crime, and being aware of your surroundings.
FAQs
Is it safe to visit Kerala now?
Kerala is generally a safe place to visit, but it’s always a good idea to take some basic precautions to ensure your safety. Stay informed about the current situation, avoid areas that are known to be affected by political unrest or crime, and be aware of your surroundings.
What are the most common crimes in Kerala?
The most common crimes in Kerala are theft, robbery, and violent crimes. However, the majority of these crimes are committed by local gangs and are not targeted at tourists.
Is it safe to travel alone in Kerala?
It’s generally safe to travel alone in Kerala, but it’s always a good idea to take some basic precautions to ensure your safety. Avoid traveling alone at night, use reputable taxi services or public transportation, and be aware of your surroundings. (See Also: Is It Safe To Visit Dubai Now? Post Covid Travel Guide)
What should I do in case of an emergency?
In case of an emergency, you should contact the local police or tourist police immediately. You can also contact your hotel or resort for assistance. It’s always a good idea to have a copy of your passport and any important documents with you in case of an emergency.
Are there any areas that I should avoid in Kerala?
Yes, there are some areas in Kerala that you should avoid, including areas that are known to be affected by political unrest or crime. It’s always a good idea to research the area you plan to visit and take some basic precautions to ensure your safety.