Karnataka News: Koppal MP Rajashekhar Hitnal has made a statement that has led to severe criticism. People are commenting in various ways on his statement. Last year, a foreign tourist was raped and another tourist was murdered in the Sanapur village. At a ‘Discover Koppal’ program held at the District Administration Office, the MP described this incident as a minor one.

Such incidents should not happen
Speaking at this event, the MP addressed the people, calling it a minor incident and said that such incidents should not happen because they damage tourism prospects. He repeated this point during his speech, which left many people present shocked and upset. His statement sparked anger, and leaders, organizations, and the general public strongly objected to what he said about the crime.

BJP surrounded
A member of the JD(S) State Core Committee called this comment irresponsible and said that instead of focusing on infrastructure development to promote tourism, the MP downplayed a serious failure of law and order. A member of the BJP State Core Committee called the comment shocking and unforgivable, and said it is not right for a person holding a constitutional post. It was stated that such incidents happened due to unlawful activities and an accusation was made that the seriousness of the crime is being downplayed.

MP issued a clarification
It was also stated that the number of tourists in the Anegundi area, which used to be over 3 million every year, has rapidly declined after these crimes. Following this criticism, Rajashekhar Hitnal issued a clarification saying that the Sanapur rape-murder case was a serious and painful incident that should not have happened. Despite this, the comment continued to be heavily criticized on social media, with women’s organizations and social activists condemning the statement, calling it wrong, and demanding a clear apology from the MP.

Sanapur village

Sanapur village is a small, traditional settlement located near Hampi in Karnataka, India, known for its serene landscape of paddy fields and boulder-strewn hills. Historically, it has existed for centuries in the shadow of the Vijayanagara Empire, with many of its current residents believed to be descendants of the artisans and workers who built Hampi’s grand monuments. Today, it is a popular base for travelers seeking a quieter alternative to Hampi, offering activities like coracle rides on the nearby Sanapur Lake.

District Administration Office

The District Administration Office is a local government building found in many countries, typically serving as the central hub for civic services, public records, and regional governance in its district. Historically, such offices were established to implement national policies at a local level, often evolving from colonial or feudal administrative systems into modern public service centers. They represent the most immediate point of contact between citizens and the state’s bureaucratic framework.

Anegundi area

Anegundi is a historic village in Karnataka, India, believed to be the ancient monkey kingdom of Kishkindha from the Hindu epic Ramayana. It is considered older than its famous neighbor, Hampi, and served as the original capital of the Vijayanagara Empire in the 14th century before the capital shifted across the Tungabhadra River. Today, it is a quieter archaeological site with ancient temples, caves, and a vibrant local culture.