Kodagu Homestay Operator Challenges Arrest in Rape Case Involving American Tourist
Rape of American woman: Kodagu homestay operator challenges arrest in Karnataka HC
Deccan Herald
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In Karnataka, the principal operator of a homestay in Kodagu has petitioned the high court to challenge his arrest in a rape case involving a 33-year-old American woman. The court has ordered the police to submit investigation papers by the next hearing.
- 01The high court in Bengaluru ordered notice to the Kutta police regarding the operator's arrest.
- 02The FIR was filed on April 18, 2026, alleging rape and destruction of evidence.
- 03The operator claims no allegations were made against him in the FIR, which primarily accuses a housekeeper.
- 04The woman reported being drugged and assaulted at the homestay on April 12, 2026.
- 05Evidence, including WhatsApp messages, suggests the operator was not present during the incident.
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The Karnataka High Court has issued a notice to the Kutta police in response to a petition from the principal operator of a homestay in Kodagu, who is challenging his arrest in a rape case involving a 33-year-old American woman. The operator was taken into judicial custody for 14 days following a complaint that he claims does not implicate him. The First Information Report (FIR) was registered on April 18, 2026, citing charges under various sections for rape, destruction of evidence, and failure to report a crime. The alleged incident occurred on April 12, 2026, when the woman reported being drugged, held captive, and sexually assaulted at the homestay. The operator contends that the FIR only accuses a housekeeper of the sexual offense and lacks any allegations against him. He also highlighted that the remand application included an additional charge of common intention after his arrest. Furthermore, he presented WhatsApp communications with the complainant, asserting that these messages demonstrate he was not present at the homestay during the alleged assault.
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The case raises concerns about safety in tourism accommodations in Kodagu, affecting local businesses and the tourism sector.
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