Karnataka to strengthen security at tourist spots

Bengaluru

In response to the recent tragic incident in Hampi, Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara announced that security at tourist destinations across the state will be reinforced to ensure visitor safety.

Speaking to reporters on Sunday, Parameshwara assured that necessary steps would be taken to prevent such crimes in the future. "We will definitely enhance security measures in places like Hampi and other tourist spots," he stated. He added that tourists will also be given safety guidelines to help them stay vigilant during their travels.

The Minister acknowledged that the recent rape of a foreign national and a homestay owner could negatively impact Karnataka’s tourism sector. "While we are making efforts to attract global tourists, such incidents create fear and discourage people from visiting our country," he said.

Providing details of the March 6 incident, Parameshwara said two foreign nationals, including an Israeli woman, along with two others, had gone stargazing near the Tungabhadra canal. Three local men approached them asking for directions. When the tourists expressed their inability to help, the men robbed them. A dispute followed, and the assailants pushed the tourists into the canal. While three escaped, one went missing and was later found dead. The attackers allegedly raped two women.

Third accused arrested in Hampi tourist assault case

Karnataka Minister Shivaraj Tangadagi confirmed the arrest of the third suspect in the gang rape of two women near Hampi. The horrific crime, involving an Israeli tourist, occurred on March 6. Two suspects were arrested on March 8, while the third was caught in Tamil Nadu. Tangadagi assured that security measures for tourists would be strengthened. The victims were attacked while stargazing near the Tungabhadra canal. One tourist was killed, and authorities continue their investigation into the case.