The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India says recent sexual attacks on women may account for a big drop in tourist numbers.

According to the ACCII there has been a 25% decline in the number of visitors to India over the last three months and a poll of 1,200 tour operators is said to show that female tourists have fallen by 35% over the same period. There have been several highly publicised reports of sexual attacks and rape on women in India in recent months, with the authorities criticised for inaction and slow responses to these crimes.

However, other commentators say that the reason for the fall is simply an unfavourable exchange rate resulting in potential visitors opting for South-East Asian and other destinations.

But whatever the reason, the ACCII says with more certainty that nearly 75% of those tour operators it has surveyed have confirmed that many tourists who had planned to visit India have subsequently chosen to travel elsewhere, with most cancellations made by citizens of the UK, US, Canada and Australia.