The Karnataka government has introduced stricter regulations for homestays and bed-and-breakfasts following recent criminal incidents, including the rape of a US tourist in Kodagu. The new rules require registration, staff background checks, and CCTV installation. Officials said the measures aim to strengthen monitoring in such establishments.
The state government introduced a set of stricter rules for homestays and bed-and-breakfasts on Monday. Officials said the measures were prompted by recent criminal incidents, including a case in Koppal district in March 2025 and the rape of an American tourist in Kodagu.
Under the new rules, all homestays must register with the state tourism department. The circular states that operations without valid registration are illegal and subject to legal action. Staff backgrounds must be verified at local police stations, and CCTV cameras are mandatory in reception areas with footage retained for at least 30 days.
Registered properties will be integrated into the police e-beat system, requiring physical visits logged via GPS. Operators must keep detailed guest records, display helpline 112, and train staff on gender sensitisation under POSH and POCSO Acts.
In the Kodagu incident, the homestay owner was arrested on April 22 for withholding information and shielding an accused employee under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Both remain in judicial custody until May 3. Association president Monthi Ganesh noted that while 2,470 homestays are registered in the district, over 2,000 operate without approval.
