Israeli tourist, homestay owner gangraped in Karnataka.
An Israeli tourist and a homestay owner were brutally gangraped near the Tungabhadra Left Bank Canal in Karnataka’s Koppal district. The horrific incident took place around 10:30 pm while the victims were stargazing. According to police sources, a group of unidentified men attacked them, sexually assaulting both before fleeing the scene.
The victims had reportedly gone to the secluded spot to enjoy the night sky when they were accosted. The perpetrators overpowered them, subjected them to assault, and left them traumatized. Locals later alerted the authorities, and the police launched an investigation.
Officials have recorded statements from the victims and are conducting searches in the area. The Israeli tourist has been provided medical assistance and consular support.
The shocking crime has sparked outrage, with calls for swift justice. Karnataka authorities have assured stringent action, and forensic teams are gathering evidence.
Security concerns for tourists and women’s safety in the region have now become a focal point, with demands for stricter policing and surveillance in remote areas.
Koppal, Karnataka – In a shocking and deeply disturbing incident, a 27-year-old Israeli tourist and a 29-year-old homestay owner were allegedly gang-raped by three men while stargazing near a canal in Koppal, Karnataka. The crime took place on the night of March 6, around 10:30 pm, near the Tungabhadra Left Bank Canal.
According to reports, the two women were accompanied by three other travelers—a man from the United States and two others from Maharashtra and Odisha—when they were attacked. The group had gone to the secluded location to enjoy the night sky when three unidentified men reportedly approached them. The assailants were armed and overpowered the victims before sexually assaulting them. They also allegedly robbed the group and fled the scene, leaving the victims traumatized.
Police Investigation Underway
The survivors immediately sought help, and the matter was reported to the police. A case has been registered at the Gangavathi Rural Police Station under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including:
- Section 309(6): Theft or extortion
- Section 311: Robbery or dacoity with the intent to cause death or grievous hurt
- Section 64: Rape
- Section 70(1): Gang-rape
- Section 109: Attempt to murder
Senior police officials, forensic teams, and local authorities have been deployed to the area to collect evidence and track down the accused. Karnataka’s Director General of Police (DGP) has assured a thorough investigation, stating that all efforts are being made to identify and arrest the culprits at the earliest.
Medical Examination and Support for Victims
The Israeli tourist and the homestay owner have been provided immediate medical assistance, and their statements have been recorded. The Israeli embassy has been informed, and officials are extending consular support to the foreign national. The other three travelers, who were present during the attack, have also been questioned by the police.
Forensic experts have collected samples from the crime scene, and authorities are reviewing CCTV footage from nearby areas to trace the suspects. Preliminary reports indicate that the perpetrators may have been familiar with the area, as they targeted a relatively isolated spot.
Shock and Outrage Over the Incident
The brutal crime has triggered widespread outrage, with local residents, women’s rights activists, and political leaders demanding strict action against the accused. Several social activists have pointed out the recurring issue of safety for women, especially in remote areas that lack proper security measures.
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has condemned the attack and assured swift justice for the victims. “This is a deeply distressing incident. We will ensure that the perpetrators are arrested and punished as per the law. Security for tourists and women in Karnataka is a top priority,” he said in a statement.
Women’s rights groups have urged the state government to increase police patrols in tourist hotspots and improve security measures to prevent such heinous crimes.
Tourism Concerns and Safety Measures
Karnataka is a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists, known for its rich cultural heritage, historical sites, and natural beauty. However, incidents like this raise serious concerns about the safety of visitors, particularly women.
The tourism department is now under pressure to implement stricter security measures, including better surveillance, increased police presence in remote locations, and emergency helplines for tourists.
Meanwhile, authorities have urged travelers to exercise caution and avoid isolated areas at night. The police are also considering issuing safety advisories for tourists visiting offbeat locations.
Hunt for the Accused Continues
As the investigation progresses, police teams are conducting extensive searches and questioning locals to gather information about potential suspects. The authorities have assured that no stone will be left unturned in ensuring justice for the victims.
The incident serves as a grim reminder of the ongoing safety challenges for women in India. While law enforcement agencies work to bring the perpetrators to justice, the need for systemic changes to enhance security and prevent such crimes remains urgent.