In the wake of a horrific incident in which a group of men brutally assaulted a woman and murdered a tourist in the Indian city of Hampi, hundreds of travelers are fleeing the area. The city, a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the southern state of Karnataka, has long been a popular destination for tourists, particularly from Israel and Europe, drawn to its ancient ruins and cultural significance. However, the recent attack has sent shockwaves through the community, leaving many visitors shaken and eager to depart.
According to reports, the incident occurred on March 6 in the village of Sanapur, a area favored by tourists due to its proximity to ancient temples and historical sites. A group of travelers, including an Israeli woman, an Indian woman who owned a local homestay, and two men, were stargazing near a temple when they were approached by three men on a motorcycle. The men asked for directions to a gas station, but upon receiving the information, they demanded 100 rupees from the group. When the travelers attempted to refuse, one of the men eventually handed over 20 rupees, but the group of men became agitated and an altercation ensued.
The situation quickly escalated, with the three men pushing the two male travelers into the nearby river and then raping the two women. Two of the men were able to swim to safety, but a third, a tourist from the state of Odisha, drowned. The perpetrators were later identified and arrested, with two suspects taken into custody on Saturday, March 8, and a third apprehended in the neighboring state of Tamil Nadu on Sunday before being transferred to Karnataka on Monday.
The attack has had a profound impact on the local tourism industry, with many visitors opting to leave the area out of fear for their safety. Syed Ismail, a local guide, reported that nearly 90% of tourists have checked out of their accommodations and departed, while those who remain have been advised to travel in groups and avoid isolated areas. The incident has sparked widespread concern, with authorities working to ensure the safety and security of visitors to the region.
As the city struggles to come to terms with the aftermath of the attack, the local community is left to grapple with the consequences of such a heinous crime. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of prioritizing safety and security, particularly in areas popular with tourists. According to police officer Ram Arasidi, who is overseeing the investigation, the authorities are taking all necessary measures to prevent such incidents in the future and to ensure that justice is served.
The incident has been widely reported, with international news outlets such as the BBC covering the story. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the city of Hampi will recover from this tragic event and what steps will be taken to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.