Hampi, India — A horrific crime scene unfolded at a popular tourist spot in southern India last week, culminating in a deepening investigation as authorities attempt to grapple with the violent attack on a group of stargazers that left one man dead and two women sexually assaulted.
On the night of March 2, near the historic city of Hampi, Karnataka, a small group consisting of two women and three men were attacked by assailants. The group included an Israeli woman, her Indian female host, and three male tourists, one of whom was American. The assault happened near a secluded lake known for its tranquil nighttime views, turning a peaceful outing into a nightmarish ordeal.
According to Police Superintendent Ram Arasiddi, the attackers forcibly submerged the men in the nearby Tungabhadra River canal. While two of the men managed to survive the terrifying ordeal, the body of the third, an Indian national, was later recovered from the canal.
The women experienced brutal violence, with both being physically assaulted and raped. Local police, upon being notified, launched an immediate investigation, which led to the arrest of two men identified as Sai Chetan and Mallesh, both local residents from the Gangavathi area.
The US State Department has acknowledged the incident, confirming that a US citizen was among the victims of this violent crime near the UNESCO World Heritage site in Hampi. The international dimension of the crime has brought a renewed spotlight on the safety of tourists in the region.
The local community has been shaken by the violence. The attacks caused panic among tourists, prompting hundreds to leave the area out of fear for their safety. A local homestay host noted a significant downturn in visitors, which has adversely impacted their livelihoods. Reports indicate that approximately 400 people, mostly Israelis, have vacated since the attack became widely known through social media networks.
In the aftermath of the violence, Karnataka state authorities have faced criticism for their handling of safety issues related to tourists. In response, state officials including Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah have publicly condemned the attack, describing it as a heinous crime and vowing to enhance protective measures to prevent such incidents.
This occurrence has added to the growing concerns over sexual violence in India. National statistics indicate a troubling rise in reported rape cases, which have surged by 20 percent from the previous year, according to the National Crime Records Bureau. This incident underscores the societal and legal challenges facing India in its efforts to combat gender-based violence.
As the investigation continues, police efforts to detain the remaining suspect and further investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack persist. Meanwhile, local and international communities are closely watching the state’s response, calling for meaningful action to ensure such brutal attacks do not recur and that the region remains safe for all visitors.
The incident highlights ongoing issues of safety for both tourists and locals, with authorities under pressure to bolster security measures and restore confidence among international visitors to one of India’s famed cultural heritage sites.