An American woman tourist was allegedly sexually assaulted at a private homestay in Kutta village, Madikeri district, Karnataka. Police arrested the accused, Vrujesh Kumar from Jharkhand, and also took the homestay owner, Vishal, into custody. Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara confirmed that attempts to cover up the case were foiled, stressing that strict action would follow. He emphasized that homestays must comply with licensing norms and standard operating procedures, warning that violations would invite legal consequences.
The incident, which occurred on April 19 at ‘Devi Villa,’ has raised concerns about safety in Karnataka’s tourism sector. Parameshwara noted that such crimes tarnish the state’s image, especially when foreigners are involved, and vowed strong measures to uphold accountability. The case recalls a 2023 assault in Hampi where tourists were attacked and two women gang-raped, leading to death penalties for three men. The latest case underscores the urgent need for ethical oversight and stricter enforcement in homestay operations.