Udaipur: Just a week after the U.S. State Department issued a travel advisory warning women about safety risks in India, a shocking incident has emerged from Udaipur, a popular tourist destination in Rajasthan. A 22-year-old French woman has accused a man of raping her after he lured her from a party under the pretext of showing her city views. Her health declined after the assault, leading her to seek medical care at a private hospital.
According to police reports, the victim arrived in Udaipur from Delhi on June 22, and was staying at a hotel in the Ambamata area. On Sunday evening, she attended a party at The Greek Farm near Tiger Hill, where the accused approached her.
The woman stated that the man invited her outside for a smoke, promising scenic views. Despite her repeated requests to return to her hotel, he allegedly took her to a rented apartment in Sukher, where he sexually assaulted her. Her phone was dead at the time, leaving her unable to call for help.
Station House Officer (SHO) Purn Singh Rajpurohit confirmed that an FIR has been registered and the accused is currently absconding. The victim is reportedly in stable condition and receiving treatment at a private hospital.
DySP Kailash Chandra Khateek revealed that the woman was associated with an event management company in Jodhpur, while the accused also worked in the same industry. The two had met at a party the previous night.
Udaipur SP Yogesh Goyal said, the case has been registered under the relevant sections of sexual assault and rape and the search teams are in lookout for the accused. The officer also said that further investigation would reveal how exactly the accused came in contact with the French woman and what had happened.
This incident comes amid growing concerns over women's safety in India, particularly for foreign tourists. The U.S. advisory had specifically highlighted risks of sexual violence and terrorism, urging travelers to exercise caution.
The case has once again raised questions about tourist safety in India, with activists demanding stricter measures to protect women and faster justice in such crimes.
It may be noted that the US Department of State had issued a Level 2 advisory to American citizens and workers living in India, asking them to "exercise increased caution", in the wake of incidents of crime and terrorism. The Trump administration had also asked women not to travel alone and be extra alert while at any tourist sites and other locations.
"Exercise increased caution in India due to crime and terrorism. Some areas have increased risk. Violent crime and terrorism occur in India. Rape is one of the fastest growing crimes in India. Violent crimes, including sexual assault, happen at tourist sites and other locations," the advisory, which was reissued on June 16 after periodic review with updates to entry/exit requirements, said. "Do not travel alone, especially if you are a woman", the advisory reads.
You can also join our WhatsApp group to get premium and selected news of The Mooknayak on WhatsApp. Click here to join the WhatsApp group.