Mumbai: A disturbing video filmed at Mumbai’s iconic Gateway of India has gone viral, raising fresh concerns about the safety of foreign tourists, particularly women, in India’s major cities. The footage shows a female tourist being mobbed by a group of men who surrounded her and took selfies without her consent.
In the clip, a man is first seen approaching the woman for a photograph, casually placing his hand on her shoulder before snapping a selfie. Within moments, others begin crowding around her, some holding up phones to take pictures or videos. At one point, around 15 men encircle her, leaving her visibly uncomfortable and with little room to move.
अमेरिका ने कुछ दिन पहले महिलाओं के लिए ट्रैवल एडवाइज़री जारी किया था कि भारत में अकेले घूमने ना जाएं, वरना हिंसा और बलात्कार हो सकता है 🚨🚨
देखिए कैसे विदेशी महिला पर्यटकों के कंधे पर हाथ रख कर सेल्फी ले रहे हैं जैसे ख़ुद की पत्नी हो 😡😡 pic.twitter.com/5PQwGYeXG1
— Saral Vyangya (@SaralVyangya) July 27, 2025
Social media reaction
Despite the intimidating situation, the tourist remained composed and appeared to handle the ordeal calmly. However, the video has drawn widespread criticism online, with many users condemning the behaviour as invasive and damaging to India’s global image. Observers stressed that such conduct, regardless of intent, can be deeply unsettling for visitors unfamiliar with the local environment.
The timing of the video remains unclear, and no official response has been issued regarding whether any action will be taken against those involved.
US issues travel advisory for passengers travelling to India
The viral footage has emerged just weeks after the United States issued a Level-2 travel advisory for India on June 16, urging American citizens to exercise increased caution. The advisory cited growing concerns over crime and terrorism, highlighting violent offences such as sexual assault, particularly in crowded public spaces, tourist attractions, and transport hubs.
The US State Department identified rape as one of India’s fastest-rising crimes and warned that terror attacks could occur without warning. Female travellers were advised to avoid venturing out alone, remain alert in public, and keep up to date with local developments. The advisory also encouraged enrolment in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for closer communication with US embassies and consulates.