Indian travel influencer Tanya Khanijow has defended her controversial advisory urging women to “avoid coming to India at all costs.” The advisory, which she posted on social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter), was made in the wake of a high-profile rape and murder case in Kolkata that has shocked the nation.
Safety standards for women in India are horrible. My sincere request to all my women friends abroad. Please don’t travel here unless our dear leadership seriously creates a safer environment for women. Please avoid coming to India at all costs! #kolkata #RGKarHospital…
— Tanya Khanijow (@TanyaKhanijow) August 12, 2024
In her post, Khanijow highlighted what she perceives as severe safety issues for women in India. “Safety standards for women in India are horrible. My sincere request to all my women friends abroad: Please don’t travel here unless our leadership seriously improves safety for women,” she stated. Her comments sparked significant backlash, with critics accusing her of defaming the country and catering to Western audiences.
The incident in question involved the rape and murder of a woman doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata, which has led to widespread outrage and protests across India. Khanijow’s post was met with accusations that she was painting an unfairly negative picture of India. “You should be ashamed of yourself. The incident happened in a state with a woman chief minister, and you’re condemning the entire country?” one critic wrote.
Tanya Khanijow responded by reaffirming her stance, arguing that such issues are systemic and not isolated incidents. “It’s not just one incident. Speak to any woman, and I bet she has experienced some form of assault. Safety standards are poor and it’s a nationwide issue,” she said.
Despite facing calls for a boycott of her social media channels and even suggestions to leave the country, Tanya Khanijow remained resolute. Supporters of her view argued that the backlash she faced exemplifies the broader issue of how criticism about women’s safety is often met with defensiveness rather than constructive dialogue.
The controversy has added fuel to the ongoing debate about women’s safety in India, with the tragic case in Kolkata further intensifying calls for improved protections and systemic change.