American Tourist Gang-Raped In India [Report]
An American tourist was allegedly gang-raped while traveling in northern India this week.
According to police, the 31-year-old woman was on her way back to Manali when she accepted a ride from three men in a truck. The men reportedly drove to an isolated location and gang-raped her.
Police are currently investigating the incident and searching the area for the perpetrators. CNN reports that three men were briefly detained for questioning but were later released.
The woman was taken to a hospital to be evaluated after the incident. Doctors confirmed that she had been sexually assaulted before she was released. The woman has been assigned a police escort while they continue to search for the perpetrators.
A local police inspector who declined to be identified told Reuters: “Her condition is stable and she is accompanied by two women constables. All medical help has been given, and the doctors have been taking care of her… We have told her we are like family and are available for any help.”
Sadly, sexual assault is fairly common in India.The National Crime Records Bureau says that more than 24,000 rapes were reported in 2011.
The U.S. State Department issued a travel advisory for tourists in India saying that women should avoid public transport after dark and should only travel with trustworthy companions.
