UAE embassy in New Delhi issues travel advisory to residents

Thousands of protesters in India continue to demonstrate against new citizenship law

Demonstrators hold placards as they participate in a protest against the Citizenship Amendment Bill on December 15, 2019. AFP / SAM PANTHAKY

The UAE embassy in New Delhi has issued a travel advisory to residents heading to India amid continuing protests in parts of the country.

On Sunday, Indian police fired tear gas and launched baton charges as thousands of demonstrators in the South Delhi rallied against a new citizenship law.

The legislation, enacted on December 11, has lead to violent protests for five consecutive days.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has said the new law will save religious minorities such as Hindus and Christians from persecution in neighbouring Bangladesh and Pakistan, by offering them a path to Indian citizenship.

But critics say the ruling, which does not make the same provision for Muslims, weakens India's secular foundations.

On Sunday, a tweet from the UAE embassy in the Indian capital warned travellers of the existence of strikes and said demonstrations should be avoided.

It said that for further information, people should contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Co-operation.