Hyderabad: The rape of foreign tourists in the city has added a series of disturbing events involving foreign women in India, especially solo travelers or groups. According to the NCRB, 192 cases involving foreign victims were recorded in 2022, compared with 150 cases the previous year, an increase of 28%.
Among them, 28 were rape cases and 13 attacks were reported. Of the 222 victims, more than half are from Asian countries, followed by 18% in African countries. The remaining cases spanned Europe, North America and Oceania.
Despite these numbers, beliefs are still rare. According to reports, between 2016 and 2022, only 16 of the 148 rape cases involving foreigners arrived in the court. Just seven convictions ended, less than five percent. A deeper concern is that 56% of cases are still waiting during the investigation phase.
The incident this week happened after other cases involving foreigners. Just a few weeks ago, videos of Holi celebrations surfaced online, showing foreign women being caught, groped and harassed in the streets.
Some have escaped the feeling of traveling contrary, others have posted warnings for future travelers online. In addition, this month, an Israeli tourist was formed in Karnataka. In another case, British tourists were allegedly raped in Goa. Last year, Spanish cyclists were kidnapped in Dumka, Jharkhand.
All of this paints a grim picture of travelers in the country. Although Hyderabad is safer, the incident on Monday puts it on the map.
Although the German government has no special consultations for travelers in India, the UK, the US and Australia have detailed the travel consultations that warned female tourists. These warnings refer to harassment in public places, sexual violence in tourist areas, irritating beverages, and advise against risking alone, regardless of the time of day.
It is recommended to use app-based taxis, prepaid taxis and registered hotel transportation on street vehicles, especially in unfamiliar areas.
Travel blogger Aastha Maheshwari, who is familiar with the terrain of India, often shares practical advice for female travelers. She sticks with an app-based cab, buys local Sims, and saves emergency contacts before she sets off.
“It’s sad, but geography is important. You need to keep track of where you are, who you are with and when. Staying in touch is everything. Knowing the numbers to call, understanding some local words, and carrying cash can make a difference.” Her words are carefully described in many solo travel video blogs, “Is India safe?” Where is the problem with this question? The frequency is now increasing.
