MYSURU: A woman tourist from the US was allegedly sexually assaulted in a homestay in Kutta in Kodagu district.According to the police, the accused and another person were arrested following a complaint.According to the sources, the incident happened last week. “The survior had approached the US embassy after the incident. The embassy staff alerted us following which legal action was initiated,” explained sources.“The woman had arrived to stay in the homestay for three days. Immediately after the incident she approached the embassy,” explained police sources.Kodagu SP R N Bindu Mani said two accused were 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. The case is currently under investigation, she said.The victim is currently undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Mysuru.The incident has sparked strong reactions, with Karnataka MLC CT Ravi condemning the crime. In a post on social media, he said the assault was “deeply shameful and unacceptable” and went against India’s ethos of Atithi Devo Bhava.“This is not just a crime against an individual, but a blot on our nation’s image and values,” he said, urging the state government to ensure swift and stringent action. He also called on 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.”
