Prime Minister Narendra Modi dismissed media reports that the Indian government planned to impose a tax or restrictions on foreign travel on Friday [1, 2].
The denial aims to stop the spread of misinformation and reassure citizens that the administration is not adding new financial burdens to international trips [1, 3].
Modi addressed the rumors through a post on X and a brief press interaction in New Delhi [2, 3]. He said the reports had "not an iota of truth" [1]. The Prime Minister said the claims were "totally false" and that there was "no question of such restrictions" [2].
According to the Prime Minister, the government remains focused on reducing burdens on citizens, and easing the costs associated with business [1, 3]. He said the report was completely false and emphasized that the administration's goal is to lower costs for the public [3].
The reports had suggested that the government was considering new levies or curbs on those traveling abroad. By addressing the issue directly, Modi sought to clarify that no such policy is under consideration — a move intended to stabilize public sentiment regarding economic travel costs [1, 3].
Modi's response came amid broader economic appeals to maintain a business-friendly environment within India [3]. He said the government is committed to facilitating easier movement and reducing the overall cost of doing business globally [3].
“Not an iota of truth.”
This swift denial by the Prime Minister suggests the government is sensitive to public perception regarding the cost of living and the ease of doing business. By framing the reports as misinformation, the administration seeks to prevent potential diplomatic or domestic backlash that could arise from perceived restrictions on the freedom of movement or increased financial barriers for Indian citizens traveling abroad.
