Police holds meet with homestay & hotel operators amid safety concerns following gang-rape of Israeli tourist

Locals in Hampi expressed apprehensions that the recent gang-rape of an Israeli tourist could deter visitors from the visiting the popular UNESCO World Heritage site located in Karnataka, hurting tourism-dependent livelihoods. Tourist guides told ET that the incident, which occurred about 28 km from Hampi's ruins, is already affecting businesses, especially during the off-season when tourist numbers are low.

"Vloggers and social media channels are using images of Hampi ruins while discussing the case, spreading a perception that the area is unsafe. Restaurants, homestays and transport services like taxis and autos are already feeling the impact," said Hussen P, a state-recognised guide. The incident took place on March 6 when a group of five went to the Sanapur lake for stargazing when three locals attacked them. While the three male companions were pushed into the Tungabhadra canal, the two women including an Israeli national and a homestay owner were raped. All three accused were arrested by the police.

While some locals believe it's too soon to gauge the full impact, others fear long-term consequences. Virupakshi V, secretary of the State Tourist Guides Association, said that nearly 90% of tourists staying near Sanapur Lake, mostly Israelis, have vacated their accommodations since the incident, with many cancelling bookings. "Locals rely on tourism for 80% of their income, with the rest coming from agriculture. If this fear persists, it could be bad for business," he said. Hampi usually sees a large number of European backpackers during their holiday season, but many may now choose other destinations, he said.


The Israeli victim, meanwhile, has left the country.

Following the incident, police held a meeting with homestay owners, restaurant managers and hotel operators to discuss safety measures. Vijayanagara superintendent of police Shrihari Babu BL said the police had instructed homestays to install CCTV cameras, maintain tourist registers and advise guests against travelling to remote areas at night without a guide.

During peak season in late December, Hampi attracts about 175,000 visitors daily, making security a pressing concern. Locals have urged authorities to improve street lighting, install surveillance cameras and set up a police station in Sanapur or Anegundi, as the nearest one is 10-15 km away, said K Nagendra, a local resident.