Kodagu horror: US tourist assaulted, phone seized and confined for three days; police arrest two

A tourist from Washington was allegedly raped at a homestay in Karnataka’s Kodagu district, police said on Wednesday. Two people have been arrested in the case, including the main accused, who worked at the homestay and is reportedly from Jharkhand, and the owner of the property.

According to police, the woman was assaulted inside her room at the homestay, which is a popular tourist spot. It is also alleged that the owner did not help her and instead kept her confined for three days, took her mobile phone, and threatened her to stop her from filing a complaint.

The incident reportedly happened about a week ago. The woman later went to Mysuru, where she contacted US authorities and reported the crime. After getting information from the US Embassy, Karnataka Police registered a case and started an investigation.

Incident reported and arrests made

According to Times of India reports, police confirmed that the complaint was registered in Kodagu district, following which an investigation was launched immediately. Two suspects were detained and later formally arrested in connection with the case.

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According to Times of India reports, the sources that the incident took place last week. “The survivor had approached the US embassy after the incident. The embassy staff alerted us, following which legal action was initiated.”

“The woman had arrived to stay at the homestay for three days. Immediately after the incident, she approached the embassy,” police sources added.

What police said

As per Times of India reports, Kodagu SP R N Bindu Mani said two accused have been arrested in connection with the incident. “A case of sexual assault on a foreign national has been registered in Kutta Police Station. We have arrested two accused and produced them before a local court which has sent them to judicial custody,” the IPS officer stated. She added that the case is currently under investigation. The victim is currently undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Mysuru.

Officials stated that the investigation is ongoing, and more information is being collected to establish the full sequence of events surrounding the incident.

Political reaction and strong condemnation

The incident has drawn strong reactions from political leaders. Karnataka MLC CT Ravi condemned the act on his X account, calling it “deeply shameful and unacceptable” and against India’s ethos of Atithi Devo Bhava.

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“This is not just a crime against an individual, but a blot on our nation’s image and values,” he said, urging authorities to take strict action and ensure justice. He also urged Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to order a thorough investigation and ensure justice for the victim.

Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara said, "SOP has been circulated. Homestay operators must adhere to regulations and possess licenses."

This case shows that there is a strong need for better safety for tourists, especially when they stay in private places. It also shows how important it is for police to act quickly in such serious cases. As the investigation is going on, strict action is expected against the accused.