(a) whether the cases of harassment and cheating with foreign tourists are on the increase this year;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether any inquiry has been ordered in this regard;
(d) if so, the outcome thereof; and
(e) the action taken against persons/companies found guilty therein?
MINISTER OF TOURISM AND CULTURE (SHRI JAGMOHAN)
(a),(b),(c),(d) and (e) : Law and Order is primarily a state subject. However, the Central Department of Tourism in order to inspire confidence in visiting tourists regularly takes up reported cases with the State Government and other local authorities concerned on top priority. The Central Government has also requested the State Governments to have preventive tourism legislation and set up Tourist Police to safeguard the interests of tourists. States of Jammu & Kashmir, Rajasthan, Goa, Kerala, Himachal Pradesh etc. have already set up Tourist Police. Some other State Governments are considering introduction of such legislation. Strict action would be taken against those found guilty.