American woman drugged and sexually assaulted at Karnataka homestay, owner cut the Wi-Fi to prevent her from seeking help, two arrested

A woman from the United States visiting India has reported sexual assault during her stay at a homestay in Kutta village of Kodagu district, Karnataka. Police have arrested two people in connection with the case, including the main accused and the homestay owner.

According to the complaint, the woman, who is based in Washington, said she was given a drink mixed with intoxicating substances, after which she was assaulted. Police said the accused, a man from Jharkhand, carried out the act.

The survivor had booked the homestay for a three-day stay. After the incident, she remained there for some time before managing to leave.

Homestay owner under scanner

Investigators said the role of the homestay owner is also being closely examined. Initial findings suggest he tried to limit the woman’s communication by cutting off her WiFi access for three days, making it difficult for her to reach out for help.

Police officials said there is enough early evidence to show possible involvement in trying to hide the incident. Both the accused and the owner have been sent to judicial custody until May 3 by a local court.

How the case came to light

After leaving the homestay, the woman told the owner she was heading to Mysuru. She then contacted authorities in the United States, who reached out to Indian police through email.

Acting on this information, local police quickly registered a case at Kutta Police Station and began an investigation. Kodagu Superintendent of Police R N Bindu Mani confirmed that both accused were arrested and produced before the court.

The survivor is currently receiving treatment at a private hospital in Mysuru.

Centre and US officials are involved

The matter also reached the Ministry of External Affairs, with officials from Delhi and Chennai contacting local police to review the situation and coordinate further action.

Police teams are now collecting forensic and digital evidence as part of the investigation. Officers have assured that all angles, including possible involvement of others, are being examined carefully.

Reactions from political leaders

Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara said the accused were arrested as soon as the case came to light, and further action will follow as per law. He also said such incidents harm the image of the state, especially when foreign visitors are involved. He added that standard operating procedures have been shared and homestay owners must follow rules and have proper licenses.

BJP leader C T Ravi strongly criticised the incident, calling it shameful and against India’s tradition of Atithi Devo Bhava. He urged the state government and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to ensure a proper investigation and quick justice.

Police said the investigation is going on and more details will come out as evidence is examined.