French traveler allegedly lured into alleged assault after phone-charging request—police launch manhunt
A French woman visiting Udaipur has reportedly been sexually assaulted after being invited to a man’s flat under the pretext of charging her phone. The incident, which occurred after a party, has triggered a manhunt by local police and raised serious safety concerns for foreign tourists in the city.
What Happened?
According to police reports, the French national attended a party at a café in Udaipur. After the event, an acquaintance—believed to be the suspect—offered to help charge her phone. She accepted and followed him to his nearby flat. Later, she alleges that she was sexually assaulted in the apartment. After escaping, she immediately contacted authorities, leading to a registered FIR and medical examination.
Udaipur SP Yogesh Goyal stated that the woman’s medical exam was conducted, and a case was registered based on her statement. He added that a detailed investigation is underway to ascertain how the woman came in contact with the accused.
Station House Officer (SHO) Purna Singh Rajpurohit said the accused invited the woman to step outside on the pretext of showing her the nearby sights.
The woman was rushed to a hospital as she fell ill. She is in a stable condition and is undergoing treatment at a private hospital.
The police officer said a team has been constituted to arrest Pushpraj. The French Embassy in Delhi has also been informed about the incident.
👮 Police Response and Investigation
- Udaipur police have registered a rape case based on the survivor’s complaint.
- The accused has fled the scene and is currently absconding. Meanwhile, a manhunt is underway to trace and arrest him.
- Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage from the café and nearby areas and are interviewing possible witnesses.
🌐 Tourist Safety Concerns Rise
This disturbing incident fuels growing fears about foreign visitor safety in Udaipur:
- Similar reports of harassment and threatening behavior toward foreigners have surfaced online—particularly targeting women—including in sensitive locations like City Palace.
- Public discourse, especially in local forums, indicates women across Rajasthan frequently face unsolicited advances and harassment, highlighting broader safety issues.
- The assault raises concerns across India’s travel and tourism sectors as authorities intensify efforts to protect visitors.
🛡️ Authorities’ Next Steps
The police and local administration are taking concrete steps to reassure visitors:
- Expanded manhunt—searching local lodging and lodging frequent areas.
- Stronger surveillance—increasing CCTV and patrols around tourist hubs.
- Communication campaign—advising foreigners, especially women, to seek trusted company and share itineraries.
- Support for survivors—facilitating access to medical, legal, and consular aid, in coordination with the French embassy.
📌 Advice for Travelers to Udaipur
| Safety Tip | Details |
|---|---|
| Stay with trusted companions | Avoid going with strangers, even for small favors |
| Verify addresses | Confirm the exact location before entering private spaces |
| Keep loved ones informed | Share your whereabouts and contact details regularly |
| Report immediately | To both local police and your embassy/consulate |
| Always trust instincts | If something feels unsafe, remove yourself immediately |
🗝️ In Summary
A French woman’s alleged rape in Udaipur—triggered by a request to charge her phone at an accused’s flat—has triggered alarm locally and among international tourists. Police are investigating and pursuing leads to arrest the suspect. Beyond this case, broader safety issues for women and foreign travelers in Rajasthan are being thrust into the spotlight.
Moving forward, bolstering CCTV, increasing patrols near tourist spots, and improving guidance for visitors are essential to restoring confidence and preventing tragic incidents.
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