NEW DELHI: BJP on Sunday launched a scathing attack on the Siddaramaiah-led Congress government in Karnataka after the gang-rape of two women, including an Israeli tourist, near Hampi. The assault, which took place on the night of March 6, has sparked widespread outrage, with the opposition accusing the state government of failing to uphold law and order in key tourist destinations.
BJP leaders have strongly condemned the incident, with Amit Malviya, head of the party’s IT Cell, accusing the state government of prioritising the wrong issues. In a post on social media platform X, Malviya wrote: “Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Karnataka’s most prized tourist destinations. However, the state government’s failure to maintain law and order in such high-profile locations raises serious concerns about its governance and economic impact. This is a direct result of misplaced priorities and flawed policies.”
He went on to criticise chief minister Siddaramaiah for announcing self-defence training for Muslim girls but failing to make provisions for the safety of Hindu women or tourists, adding, “Meanwhile, Karnataka’s home minister has yet to even acknowledge the crime.”
The two women, a homestay operator and the Israeli tourist, were reportedly assaulted and raped by three men near the Tungabhadra Canal in the Sanapur area of Koppal district. The three male tourists who were with them were also attacked, with one of them being pushed into the canal and later found dead. The police have arrested two suspects, Mallesh and Chetan Sai, both aged 21 and from Gangavathi. A third suspect remains at large.
The attack occurred around 11 pm when the group of five tourists, including the two women, were stargazing near the canal. According to the police, the three men approached the group on a motorcycle, initially asking for directions to a petrol station before demanding money. When the group refused to give them more, the men became violent. The assailants sexually assaulted the two women, while the three male tourists were attacked and thrown into the canal. One of the men later died from the incident. The women were also robbed, with the attackers stealing mobile phones and cash.
Chief minister Siddaramaiah condemned the assault, calling it a “most heinous act” and promising swift action. “Our government is committed to providing protection to everyone, including tourists, coming to the state,” he said in a statement. “All necessary measures will be taken to ensure that such incidents do not recur.”
However, the BJP has accused the Congress government of neglecting public safety. Karnataka BJP President BY Vijayendra criticised the government for its inaction, saying: “Criminals now act with impunity, unafraid of consequences, even in the immediate aftermath of Hampi Utsava, a festival that honours the grand legacy of the Vijayanagara Empire. The stark contrast between the state’s glorious past and its present lawlessness is truly disheartening.”
