Vietnam reacts to India Today report on Indians being ill-treated

New Delhi/Hanoi — April 10, 2026: Vietnam has issued an official response following a report by India Today alleging that Indian tourists were subjected to ill-treatment during their visit to the Southeast Asian nation. The development has drawn attention from both governments and sparked discussion on travel safety and diplomatic engagement.

The report highlighted complaints from Indian travelers who claimed they faced discriminatory behavior, excessive scrutiny at airports, and poor treatment by certain service providers during their stay in Vietnam. The allegations quickly gained traction across social media, prompting calls for clarification from Vietnamese authorities.

Vietnam Denies Systemic Misconduct

In its response, Vietnam’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that it takes all such allegations seriously but denied any systemic discrimination against Indian tourists. Officials emphasized that Vietnam remains committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment for international visitors, including those from India.

Authorities added that they are reviewing the specific incidents mentioned in the report and are open to investigating any verified complaints. However, no official confirmation has been provided regarding individual cases cited in the media coverage.

The Vietnamese government also reiterated that tourism is a key sector of its economy and that maintaining a positive experience for foreign visitors is a priority.

Concerns Raised by Indian Travelers

According to the India Today report, several Indian tourists alleged that they experienced delays during immigration checks, heightened questioning, and, in some instances, unfriendly interactions with local service staff.

Travelers also reported issues related to hotel bookings and local transport services. However, independent verification of these claims remains limited, and authorities have not confirmed whether these incidents represent isolated cases or a broader pattern.

Indian officials have not issued a formal advisory but are understood to be monitoring the situation closely. Sources indicate that diplomatic channels between New Delhi and Hanoi remain active to address any concerns.

Diplomatic and Tourism Implications

The issue comes at a time when India and Vietnam are strengthening bilateral ties, including cooperation in trade, defense, and tourism. Any perception of mistreatment could potentially impact travel flows, particularly as Vietnam has become an increasingly popular destination for Indian tourists in recent years.

Tourism industry experts note that such incidents, if confirmed, could affect traveler confidence. However, they also stress that prompt clarification and corrective action by authorities can help mitigate reputational risks.

Investigation Ongoing, Details Awaited

Both governments have yet to release detailed findings regarding the allegations. Vietnamese authorities have indicated that further updates will be provided after internal reviews are completed.

For now, officials on both sides have urged restraint and reliance on verified information, emphasizing that no conclusive evidence of widespread misconduct has been established.