Two foreign nationals were arrested for living in a tent in the jungle near McLeodGanj, Himachal Pradesh. The Russian couple had been living in the tent for the past two months without valid visas. Local residents became suspicious and reported their concerns to the authorities.

The couple were identified as Yulia Julanova and Denis Larin from Russia. Yulia’s visa had expired in September 2015 while Denis’ visa expired earlier this year. Previously, the couple had lived in Goa before coming to the jungle area of ​​McLeod Ganj for several years.

Acting on a tip-off, local police raided the tent and arrested the couple. The couple’s arrest raises serious questions about how such a situation could have gone undetected for so long.

Dharamshala Bar Association President Tarun Sharma expressed dismay over the prolonged stay of foreigners without valid visas. He criticised the local police, security agencies and administrative authorities for their ignorance of the situation and demanded a thorough investigation.

Dharamshala Municipal Mayor Neenu Sharma also criticised the local police, saying the personal details of foreign tourists must be recorded and monitored. She asked all foreign visitors to register upon arrival and warned that strict action would be taken against those who did not comply.

SP Kangra Shalini Agnihotri said the arrests were made under the Indian Penal Code, which applies to people staying in India without a valid visa. Police have registered a complaint against Yulia Julanova and Denis Larin and have initiated further investigation. ASP Kangra Hitesh Lakhanpal also confirmed the case.