The Prevention of Touting and Malpractice against Tourists Act 2010 has been welcomed by Travel trade and hospitality associations. In an effort to make the ‘city comfortable and safe’ for tourist, the Delhi assembly recently passed the Act which contains stringent punishment for people involved in malpractice against tourists.

The Act states, “Touts and malpractice shall be punished with imprisonment for a term, which may extend to one year, or with fine, which may extend to Rs 10,000, or with both.” While the offences under the Act are cognisable and bailable, it is aimed at prevent enticing, misguiding or coercing for shopping, accommodation, transportation, sight-seeing or pestering for any particular premises, therefore, any person, establishment, dealer or manufacturer for personal consideration.

Delhi Hotel & Restaurant Owners Association, welcomed the Act and informed that the Association wants all illegal activities including establishments to be included under this Act. “Touts misguide tourists and earn a bad name for the destination and the country,” stated Khandelwal.