Warning issued after protests claim more than 100 lives

Taking note of the worsening law and order situation in Brazil, India on Monday issued an advisory for citizens to follow local rules. The advisory came in view of the protests and riots that have been going on since January.

“Indian citizens visiting Rio de Janerio, Brazil are requested to monitor local media and follow the guidance of local authorities. In case they need consular assistance, they are requested to contact the Embassy of India in Brasilia at +55-61-32484006 or the Consulate General of India in Sao Paulo at +55-11-32793780,” stated an advisory from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). Sources said that the advisory was issued as a measure of “abundant precaution”. The advisory was issued after the prison riots and other protests claimed more than 100 lives so far. The riot which began with a grisly beheading of several convicts in a major prison of the country had been blamed on overcrowded prisons and rising gang warfare in the country.

Law and order has been a problem for Brazil which witnessed change of government last year.

This is the first time in recent years that India has issued an advisory for citizens travelling to Brazil. The advisory also urged citizens to contact Indian missions over email.