One vacationer, who faced arrest for carrying a gadget commonly owned by many Americans, expressed, “I’m not sure I will feel the same way about the country as I did before but I’m willing to at least leave with a better experience, and some good stories.”
Tina Lewis from Colorado is on a quest to visit all seven wonders of the world. She recently checked the Taj Mahal off her list but encountered an unexpected hurdle that proved costly.
On October 1, the 51-year-old trail runner posted on Instagram about her arrival in India, noting a smooth passage through passport control.
“The vibe is so different in Goa. I feel like I should be listening to reggae music. India is so beautiful, unique and extremely diverse,” wrote the Canadian traveler.
She added, “You sense you are in a different country when traveling to different States in India. From vastly different landscapes, clothing, food, music, customs & religion. One country but many faces.
“India, you have captured my heart!”
After traveling through India for nearly three months, she encountered difficulties while departing Goa, a region with a strong Portuguese influence due to centuries of colonization. Her troubles began when she attempted to leave for Kochi in Kerala.
While at the airport, she was stopped for possessing a Garmin inReach device, a two-way satellite communicator.
On Instagram, she detailed her ordeal: “India trip. Edition: Arrested.”
She explained that she has used the GPS device around the world, including India, to stay connected with friends and family where cell reception is unavailable, a precaution she takes as a solo female traveler.
“I was detained at airport security (CISF) in Goa and escorted to the Goan police outpost to be investigated. I was not aware a GPS device was illegal. It is a 1933 (!!!) law. According to the Indian Wireless Telegraphy Act of 1933, possession of wireless telegraphy equipment without a proper license is prohibited,” she wrote.
“After hours of investigation, being bailed out from a friend’s lawyer connection at midnight, days in court, my case was finally cleared & closed. There is a lot more to the story for another time.
“Since my case started, there has been at least 2 other tourists arrested. One Czech with a cycling Garmin GPS and an American with GPS. This outdated law needs to be challenged at higher court so other travelers do not experience what I, and others have.”
She warned, “WARNING: carrying a GPS device in India can get you arrested!
“Since receiving my passport back, I did not want to make a rash decision and just fly home. I was not letting this experience ruin my trip. I took a few days to rest & reset on the beach. I’m not sure I will feel the same way about the country as I did before but I’m willing to at least leave with a better experience, and some good stories.
“I am most certainly getting the entire India experience.”
For those considering a trip to India, it’s advisable to avoid bringing a GPS tracker.