Karnataka News: Following the recent gang-rape of an Israeli tourist and an Indian homestay owner near Hampi, Karnataka, the local police have intensified security measures. The brutal attack, which also led to the death of a tourist from Odisha, has raised concerns among tourists, prompting an increase in night patrolling and surprise raids on hotels and resorts.
Koppal Superintendent of Police L. Arasiddi, in an effort to tackle the rising security concerns, personally oversaw random drug checks at homestays and resorts in the affected areas, including Basapura, Anegundi and Sanapur. During these checks, the police also verified the documentation of the establishments. The authorities are urging homestay and resort owners to adhere to strict security protocols, especially to ensure the safety of foreign tourists.
Guidelines Issued For Foreign Tourists
As part of the new security measures, all tourists, especially foreign visitors, are required to fill out Form C, which includes providing passport and visa details, as well as submitting passport-sized photographs to the nearest police station. Police also instructed the owners to install CCTV cameras and inform the local police of any foreign tourists visiting their premises. Barricades have been set up on key roads for vehicle checks and the number of highway patrol vehicles has been doubled. To enhance night-time security, an inspector-level officer will now conduct nightly rounds in the Anegundi and Sanapur areas.
In a bid to prevent further incidents, the police have advised homestay owners to instruct their guests not to venture out at night, as animal attacks have been reported in the region in the past. In a statement posted on X, Koppal Police confirmed the raids and stressed the importance of complying with safety regulations. Officers inspected resort and homestay documents, checked CCTV footage and visited the Basapura check post to assess the preparedness of security systems in the area.
The incident occurred on March 6, while the group was stargazing and playing guitar near the Tungabhadra Canal in Koppal district. The three attackers, who had confronted the tourists over a monetary dispute, pushed the male tourists into the canal. While two managed to escape, 26-year-old Bibhas Nayak from Odisha tragically drowned. The police arrested all three suspects involved in the crime.
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Hampi Tourism
The attack has had a significant impact on tourism in Hampi. Reports indicate that many foreign tourists, particularly Israelis, have left the area in fear, despite assurances from Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. The state government has vowed to enhance security and ensure the safety of visitors. "We are committed to providing protection to everyone, including tourists, coming to the state. All necessary measures will be taken to prevent such incidents in the future," the Chief Minister assured.
Karnataka’s Home Minister, G Parameshwara, has also promised stronger security at popular tourist spots and has announced that tourists will now be informed about safety guidelines upon their arrival.