Jharkhand horror

THE appalling gangrape of a Spanish tourist in Dumka, Jharkhand, has brought into sharp focus the need for enhanced safety measures for foreign travellers, especially women. The ordeal suffered by the woman and her husband, who was beaten up by the goons, is a stark reminder that India must get its act together to facilitate a hassle-free stay for international tourists.

Such incidents of violence and harassment against women pose a threat to the country’s reputation as a safe destination. The recent surge in crimes against foreigners, as highlighted by the National Crime Records Bureau report of 2023, is deeply worrisome. Notably, the report says that Delhi alone saw a 48 per cent rise in crimes against foreign visitors in 2022. The Jharkhand High Court has taken suo motu cognisance of the gangrape and asked the DGP, chief secretary and the SP concerned to file a report. National Commission for Women chief Rekha Sharma has condemned the heinous attack and called for swift action to bring the perpetrators to justice. However, her disapproval of a US-based writer’s social media critique — which holds a mirror to the Indian society in the wake of the Dumka crime — doesn’t help address such issues. It demands concrete steps, with collaboration among citizens, local authorities, embassies and the tourism sector.

While dedicated tourist police units have been set up and awareness campaigns organised for the safety of travellers, much more needs to be done. Enhancing surveillance in tourist areas and imposing stricter penalties on offenders, besides speedy delivery of justice, can be crucial deterrents. Also, greater emphasis must be laid on curbing gender-based abuse. Fostering equality and respect for women is integral to creating a safer environment for all travellers, both domestic and international.

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