(Image source from: India questions "commercial activities" in US embassy })

Duty-free imports of the US embassy in India may soon be stopped as India has started to question the “commercial activities” taking place there. Following Devyani Khobragade's arrest and subsequent bail over visa fraud charges, the Indian government has stepped up pressure on US government to drop charges against the Indian diplomat.

Unhappy with the mistreatment of Khobragade after arrest, India has begun to question the concessions given to US embassy. New Delhi is of the opinion that “non-diplomatic personnel” of US embassy, including friends and private firms, are misusing the duty-free import facilities. While giving reasons for its possible move against the “non-reciprocal” concessions, India said that no such privileges was being extended by the US to any other country, as the diplomatic impasse between India and the United States continues.

US embassy has the special privilege under the American Community Support Association (ACSA). It provides 12 cans of beer, two bottles of wine and a bottle of hard liquor a week at a price that is much lower than the market price as they come under duty free goods to the embassy.
Members of ACSA have the privilege to enjoy free use of a tennis court, gymnasium, bowling alley and a swimming pool. Besides they have access to the Great Escape bar, Delhi Diner Snacks bar, Windward Café Poolside Bar and a cafeteria and Out of India restaurant on the basis of payment.

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(AW: Pratima Tigga)