Allegations of Sexual Assault Against British Tourist in Delhi

A 36-year-old British tourist reported being raped at a hotel in Delhi by an Instagram acquaintance and a hotel staff member. The women, after enduring multiple assaults, sought medical help, prompting police intervention. The authorities quickly arrested both men involved and provided support to the victim.

A 36-year-old British woman, residing in London, reported being sexually assaulted by a man she met on Instagram while staying at a hotel in Mahipalpur, Delhi. She arrived in India on March 7 and initially spent four days in Goa with friends before traveling to Delhi to meet the man, identified as Kailash Gautam, whom she knew as “Veer.”

According to her allegations, Gautam picked her up from the airport and checked into a hotel around 11 AM, where he consumed alcohol and began to behave inappropriately. Although she attempted to resist, Gautam allegedly assaulted her multiple times, prompting her to seek help. When she tried to leave the room, hotel staff mistakenly believed she was inebriated and allowed Gautam to follow her.

During the incident, a hotel housekeeping staff member, Mohammed Gulfam, also allegedly molested her in a lift. After calling out to him, she managed to make him retreat. Gautam continued to abuse her before leaving the hotel later that night. The next morning, experiencing severe pain, she visited a nearby hospital, where medical personnel alerted the authorities.

Delhi Police acted swiftly, arresting Gulfam and later apprehending Gautam, who had been evading capture by frequently changing locations. Both men were charged under the Bharatiya Nayay Sanhita for their actions. The police reported providing counseling to the victim and informed the British high commission about the incident, details regarding her current location, however, were not disclosed.

Both accused were presented before a Delhi court and remanded to judicial custody as investigations proceeded.

This distressing incident highlights the vulnerabilities faced by tourists and raises concerns regarding safety protocols in hospitality settings. The swift action by Delhi Police is commendable, leading to the prompt arrest of the alleged offenders. The case emphasizes the importance of immediate medical support and police intervention in cases of sexual assault, ensuring that victims receive necessary care and justice promptly.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com