London: Renowned British anthropologist Filippo Osella has said that he landed at the Thiruvananthapuram airport with a valid research visa issued by the Central Government and was sent back without giving any explanation. The only response from immigration officials was that it was a decision of the Indian government.
He was not allowed to talk to his friends in Kerala. The behavior of the officers was harsh. Despite being active in research in India for more than 30 years, they did not give up. When asked by his luggage to take medication for his blood pressure, he threatened to remain silent or call security guards and be detained.
He came on a multiple entry research visa, which was granted for one year after completing all the formalities. Naturally, other factors may have contributed to the new measure. He has previously visited Sri Lanka and Pakistan for research. Anything including this may have caused the travel ban. “Kerala was my second home and I loved the culture of Kerala so I was shocked to be sent back,” Ozella said in a statement.