Following the gang-rape of an Israeli tourist, Karnataka Police have intensified security measures, conducted raids on hotels and homestays, and increased night patrolling to ensure the safety of visitors, especially foreign tourists.
Koppal Superintendent of Police, L Arasiddi, led inspections in Basapura, Anegundi, and Sanapur, checking for drug violations and verifying documents of resorts and homestays. Authorities have mandated the installation of CCTV cameras and required resort owners to inform local police about foreign guests. Tourists must also complete Form C and submit visa, passport details, and photographs to the nearest police station.
To further enhance security, barricades have been set up for vehicle checks, highway patrols have been doubled, and an inspector-level officer has been assigned for night rounds in sensitive areas. Homestay owners have also been advised to caution their guests against venturing out at night due to past animal attacks.
The horrific incident, which occurred near a canal on March 6, saw a group of tourists being targeted while stargazing. An Israeli woman and a homestay owner were gang-raped, while a male tourist from Odisha was pushed into the canal and later found dead. All three suspects have been arrested, with the third accused, 27-year-old Saranabasava, apprehended in Chennai by Gangavathi Rural Police and brought back to Karnataka.
The crime has sparked widespread concern, leading to a reported exodus of foreign tourists from Hampi, despite assurances from Chief Minister Siddaramaiah that the government is committed to ensuring visitor safety.
Meanwhile, the Karnataka State Commission for Women has demanded a detailed report on legal actions taken and urged strict punishment for the accused. They also called for stronger security measures at tourist destinations to prevent such incidents in the future.
SP Arasiddi stated that security operations will continue, with surprise inspections and strict action against any violations. The incident has deeply shocked the state, prompting renewed discussions on safety in Karnataka’s tourist hotspots.