Sexual assaults against women are too common and familiar in India. The brutal rape and murder of a 27-year-old Israeli tourist in Anegundi, Koppal district, Karnataka, South India, has sent shockwaves throughout the globe, casting a dark shadow over the region’s reputation as a safe place for travelers.

This heinous crime, with the tragic drowning of a fellow tourist and the assault on others, has raised serious concerns about the safety of tourists in India.

The incident:

Anegundi, a historically significant region near the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hampi, is known for its ancient temples, beautiful landscapes, and pleasant atmosphere.

According to reports, the victims, including the Israeli tourist, a local Indian woman who operated a homestay, and male tourists from Odisha, the United States, and Maharashtra, were stargazing near the canal when they were approached by a group of men in bike. The motor biker asked them for money, which led to an argument.

The attackers, then reportedly pushed the male tourists into the canal, creating chaos and panic. The Israeli tourist and the homestay operator were then subjected to brutal sexual assault. The Israeli tourist, was a 27-years old young woman exploring the world, seeking adventure and cultural immersion. Her life was tragically cut short in a brutal act of violence, leaving her family and friends in deep mourning. The local homestay operator, whose livelihood was with the tourism industry, also suffered a horrific assault, a violation that will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on her life.

The Koppal district police have conducted investigation into the incident, vowing to bring the perpetrators to justice. Senior police officers have assured the public that no stone will be left unturned in their pursuit of the truth.

The police have reported the arrest of two men in connection with the crime. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working to determine the full extent of their involvement and identify any other individuals who may have participated in the attack.

The horrific assault and rape of an Israeli national and a homestay owner in Sanapur, Gangavati taluk, Koppal district, is a deeply heinous crime.

As soon as the incident was reported, I directed the concerned police officials to take immediate action, conduct a stringent

— Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) March 8, 2025

The rape and murder of the Israeli tourist has sparked widespread outrage, both in India and internationally. The incident has started the debate about the safety of women in India, particularly foreign tourists. The incident has also raised concerns about the safety of tourists in India, particularly in remote and less-populated areas.

The rape and murder of the Israeli tourist is not a single incident. It is a grim reminder of the violence against women in India. According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), India reports a high number of sexual assaults each year. The problem is compounded by factors such as gender inequality, violence against women, and a lack of effective law enforcement.