โš–๏ธ LEGAL RED ZONES

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ India -- Know the Law Before You Land

MEDIUM LEGAL RISK

India has specific restrictions on drones, satellite phones, and photography at sensitive sites. Religious sentiment offenses are taken seriously.

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Drones Without DGCA Permit CONFISCATION + FINE

All drones require registration with DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) and a UAS Remote Pilot Certificate. No-fly zones include all of Delhi, within 5km of airports, military areas, and borders. Tourist drones are frequently confiscated. Apply at digitalsky.dgca.gov.in. Process takes 2-4 weeks.

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Satellite Phones ARREST

Satellite phones are illegal in India for tourists without a licence from Department of Telecommunications. Carrying a sat phone can result in arrest under Indian Wireless Telegraphy Act. If you need emergency communication in remote areas, register a local SIM with roaming instead.

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Photography at Military/Government Sites ARREST

Photography prohibited at: all railway stations (some), military installations, border areas, government offices, and some temples. Signs are not always present. When in doubt, ask. Photography of tribal communities requires permission.

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Beef in Certain States ARREST

Cow slaughter and beef are banned in most Indian states including Delhi, UP, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Maharashtra. Penalties range from 7-14 years imprisonment. Beef is legal in Kerala, West Bengal, and some NE states. Do not bring beef products into these states.

Common Fines & Penalties
Drone operation without permit Up to INR 1,00,000 (~$1,200) + confiscation
Religious sentiment offense Up to 3 years imprisonment
Public intoxication Up to INR 2,000 (~$24) or 3 months
Smoking in public INR 200 (~$2.40)
Overstaying visa USD 30/day overstay fee + deportation
๐Ÿ†˜ Emergency Contacts
Police 100
Ambulance 108
Tourist Helpline (Free, English-speaking) 1800-11-1363
Embassy (US) (Delhi) +91-11-2419-8000
๐Ÿ’ก Insider Legal Tip

India's "dry states" are a common trap: Bihar, Gujarat, Mizoram, and Nagaland ban alcohol entirely. Carrying alcohol into these states from elsewhere in India can result in arrest. Check your transit route if flying domestically.

This is general travel information, not legal advice. Laws change -- verify with your government's official travel advisory and local legal counsel before travel. US: travel.state.gov ยท UK: gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice

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